Amide derivatives as ion-channel ligands and pharmaceutical compositions and methods of using the same

ABSTRACT

Compounds are disclosed that have a formula represented by the following: 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     The compounds may be prepared as pharmaceutical compositions, and may be used for the prevention and treatment of a variety of conditions in mammals including humans, including by way of non-limiting example, pain, inflammation, traumatic injury, and others.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the priority of co-pending provisionalapplications U.S. Ser. No. 60/508,884, filed on Oct. 7, 2003, and thedisclosure of this application is incorporated by reference herein itsentirety. Applicants claim the benefits of this application under 35U.S.C. §119(e).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to novel compounds and to pharmaceuticalcompositions containing such compounds. This invention also relates tomethods for preventing and/or treating pain and inflammation-relatedconditions in mammals, such as (but not limited to) arthritis,Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, uveitis, asthma,myocardial infarction, the treatment and prophylaxis of pain syndromes(acute and chronic or neuropathic), traumatic brain injury, acute spinalcord injury, neurodegenerative disorders, alopecia (hair loss),inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disorders, using the compoundsand pharmaceutical compositions of the invention.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Studies of signaling pathways in the body have revealed the existence ofion channels and sought to explain their role. Ion channels are integralmembrane proteins with two distinctive characteristics: they are gated(open and closed) by specific signals such as membrane voltage or thedirect binding of chemical ligands and, once open, they conduct ionsacross the cell membrane at very high rates.

There are many types of ion channels. Based on their selectivity toions, they can be divided into calcium channel, potassium channel,sodium channel, etc. The calcium channel is more permeable to calciumions than other types of ions, the potassium channel selects potassiumions over other ions, and so forth. Ion channels may also be classifiedaccording to their gating mechanisms. In a voltage-gated ion channel,the opening probability depends on the membrane voltage, whereas in aligand-gated ion channel, the opening probability is regulated by thebinding of small molecules (the ligands). Since ligand-gated ionchannels receive signals from the ligand, they may also be considered as“receptors” for ligands.

Examples of ligand-gated ion channels include nAChR (nicotinicacetylcholine receptor) channel, GluR (glutamate receptor) channel,ATP-sensitive potassium channel, G-protein activated channel,cyclic-nucleotide-gated channel, etc.

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channel proteins constitute a largeand diverse family of proteins that are expressed in many tissues andcell types. This family of channels mediates responses to nerve growthfactors, pheromones, olfaction, tone of blood vessels and metabolicstress et al., and the channels are found in a variety of organisms,tissues and cell types including nonexcitable, smooth muscle andneuronal cells. Furthermore, TRP-related channel proteins are implicatedin several diseases, such as several tumors and neurodegenerativedisorders and the like. See, for example, Minke, et al., APStracts9:0006P (2002).

Nociceptors are specialized primary afferent neurons and the first cellsin a series of neurons that lead to the sensation of pain. The receptorsin these cells can be activated by different noxious chemical orphysical stimuli. The essential functions of nociceptors include thetransduction of noxious stimuli into depolarizations that trigger actionpotentials, conduction of action potentials from primary sensory sitesto synapses in the central nervous system, and conversion of actionpotentials into neurotransmitter release at presynaptic terminals, allof which depend on ion channels.

One TRP channel protein of particular interest is the vanilloidreceptor. Also known as VR1, the vanilloid receptor is a non-selectivecation channel which is activated or sensitized by a series of differentstimuli including capsaicin, heat and acid stimulation and products oflipid bilayer metabolism (anandamide), and lipoxygenase metabolites.See, for example Smith, et al., Nature, 418:186-190 (2002). VR1 does notdiscriminate among monovalent cations, however, it exhibits a notablepreference for divalent cations with a permeability sequence ofCa²⁺>Mg²⁺>Na⁺═K⁺=Cs⁺. Ca²⁺ is especially important to VR1 function, asextracellular Ca²⁺ mediates desensitization, a process which enables aneuron to adapt to specific stimuli by diminishing its overall responseto a particular chemical or physical signal. VR1 is highly expressed inprimary sensory neurons in rats, mice and humans, and innervates manyvisceral organs including the dermis, bones, bladder, gastrointestinaltract and lungs. It is also expressed in other neuronal and non-neuronaltissues including the CNS, nuclei, kidney, stomach and T-cells. The VR1channel is a member of the superfamily of ion channels with sixmembrane-spanning domains, with highest homology to the TRP family ofion channels.

VR1 gene knockout mice have been shown to have reduced sensorysensitivity to thermal and acid stimuli. See, for example, Caterina, etal. Science, 14:306-313 (2000). This supports the concept that VR1contributes not only to generation of pain responses but also to themaintenance of basal activity of sensory nerves. VR1 agonists andantagonists have use as analgesics for the treatment of pain of variousgenesis or etiology, for example acute, inflammatory and neuropathicpain, dental pain and headache (such as migraine, cluster headache andtension headache). They are also useful as anti-inflammatory agents forthe treatment of arthritis, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease,stroke, uveitis, asthma, myocardial infarction, the treatment andprophylaxis of pain syndromes (acute and chronic [neuropathic]),traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, neurodegenerative disorders,alopecia (hair loss), inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmunedisorders, renal disorders, obesity, eating disorders, cancer,schizophrenia, epilepsy, sleeping disorders, cognition, depression,anxiety, blood pressure, lipid disorders, and atherosclerosis.

Compounds, such as those of the present invention, which interact withthe vanilloid receptor can thus play a role in treating or preventing orameliorating these conditions.

A wide variety of Vanilloid compounds of different structures are knownin the art, for example those disclosed in European Patent ApplicationNumbers, EP 0 347 000 and EP 0 401 903, UK Patent Application Number GB2226313 and International Patent Application, Publication Number WO92/09285. Particularly notable examples of vanilloid compounds orvanilloid receptor modulators are capsaicin or trans8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide which is isolated from the pepperplant, capsazepine (Tetrahedron, 53, 1997, 4791) and olvanil or—N-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl)oleamide (J. Med. Chem., 36, 1993, 2595).

International Patent Application, Publication Number WO 02/08221discloses diaryl piperazine and related compounds which bind with highselectivity and high affinity to vanilloid receptors, especially Type IVanilloid receptors, also known as capsaicin or VR1 receptors. Thecompounds are said to be useful in the treatment of chronic and acutepain conditions, itch and urinary incontinence.

International Patent Application, Publication Numbers WO 02/16317, WO02/16318 and WO 02/16319 suggest that compounds having a high affinityfor the vanilloid receptor are useful for treating stomach-duodenalulcers.

U.S. Patent Numbers U.S. Pat. No. 3,424,760 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,424,761both describe a series of 3-Ureidopyrrolidines that are said to exhibitanalgesic, central nervous system, and pyschopharmacologic activities.These patents specifically disclose the compounds1-(1-phenyl-3-pyrrolidinyl)-3-phenyl urea and1-(1-phenyl-3-pyrrolidinyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)urea respectively.International Patent Applications, Publication Numbers WO 01/62737 andWO 00/69849 disclose a series of pyrazole derivatives which are statedto be useful in the treatment of disorders and diseases associated withthe NPY receptor subtype Y5, such as obesity. WO 01/62737 specificallydiscloses the compound5-amino-N-isoquinolin-5-yl-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide.WO 00/69849 specifically discloses the compounds5-methyl-N-quinolin-8-yl-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,5-methyl-N-quinolin-7-yl-1-[3-trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,5-methyl-N-quinolin-3-yl-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,N-isoquinolin-5-yl-5-methyl-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,5-methyl-N-quinolin-5-yl-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,1-(3-chlorophenyl)-N-isoquinolin-5-yl-5-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,N-isoquinolin-5-yl-1-(3-methoxyphenyl)-5-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,1-(3-fluorophenyl)-N-isoquinolin-5-yl-5-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,1-(2-chloro-5-trifluoromethylphenyl)-N-isoquinolin-5-yl-5-methyl-1N-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,5-methyl-N-(3-methylisoquinolin-5-yl)1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1N-pyrazole-3-carboxamide,5-methyl-N-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-5-yl)-1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide.

German Patent Application Number 2502588 describes a series ofpiperazine derivatives. This application specifically discloses thecompound N-[3-[2-(diethylamino)ethyl]-1,2-dihydro-4-methyl-2-oxo-7-quinolinyl]-4-phenyl-1-piperazinecarboxamide.

We have now discovered that certain compounds have surprising potencyand selectivity as VR-1 antagonists. The compounds of the presentinvention are considered to be particularly beneficial as VR-1antagonists as certain compounds exhibit improved aqueous solubility andmetabolic stability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has now been found that compounds such as those set forth herein, arecapable of modifying mammalian ion channels such as the VR1 cationchannel. This finding leads to novel compounds having therapeutic value.It also leads to pharmaceutical compositions having the compounds of thepresent invention as active ingredients and to their use to treat,prevent or ameliorate a range of conditions in mammals such as but notlimited to pain of various genesis or etiology, for example acute,chronic, inflammatory and neuropathic pain, dental pain and headache(such as migraine, cluster headache and tension headache).

Accordingly, in a first aspect of the invention, compounds are disclosedthat are capable of modifying ion channels, in vivo, having a formula I:

wherein:

A is N, CR⁴, a carbon atom bound to L, or is not an atom;

one of W, Z, B, Y and X is a carbon atom bound to L if A is not an atom,another of W, Z, B, Y and X is a carbon atom bound to G, and each of theremaining W, Z, B, Y and X is independently N or CR⁴;

L is substituted or unsubstituted —(C—C)—, —(CR⁵═CR⁶)— or —(C≡C)—;

G is C═O, C═S or SO₂;

R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl,heteroaryl, aralkyl, or heteroaralkyl;

R² is hydrogen or substituted or unsubstituted alkyl;

R³ is substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl,heteroaryl, aralkyl, or heteroaralkyl; and

each R⁴ is independently hydrogen, alkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedalkyl, acyl, acylamino, alkylamino, alkylthio, alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl,alkylarylamino, arylalkyloxy, amino, aryl, arylalkyl, sulfoxide,sulfone, sulfanyl, aminosulfonyl, arylsulfonyl, sulfuric acid, sulfuricacid ester, dihydroxyphosphoryl, aminohydroxyphosphoryl, azido, carboxy,carbamoyl, carboxyl, cyano, cycloheteroalkyl, dialkylamino, halo,heteroaryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroalkyl, hydroxyl, nitro or thio; and

each of R⁵ and R⁶ is independently H, halo, or substituted orunsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, aralkyl,or heteroaralkyl;

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof;and isomers and stereoisomers thereof.

In a further embodiment of the invention, compounds are capable ofmodifying ion channels, in vivo, having a formula IA:

In a particular embodiment of the compounds of formula IA, L issubstituted or unsubstituted —(C—C)—, —CR⁵═CR⁶)— or —(C≡C)—, G is C═O,R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl,heteroaryl, aralkyl, or heteroaralkyl, R² is hydrogen, and R³ issubstituted or unsubstituted aliphatic or alkyl.

In another particular embodiment of compounds of formula IA, hereinafterreferred to as compounds of formula IA′, R³-L represents the moiety:CR³R⁶═CR⁵

wherein R³ is as defined for compounds of formula I and R⁵ and R⁶ areindependently selected from hydrogen, halo, substituted or unsubstitutedaliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, aralkyl andheteroaralkyl.

In certain specific compounds R³ is selected from substituted orunsubstituted C1-6 alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C1-6 cycloalkyl,substituted or unsubstituted aryl and substituted or unsubstitutedaralkyl; and each R⁵ and R⁶ are independently selected from hydrogen,halo and substituted and unsubstituted C1-6alkyl; and 0-3 groupsselected from W, Z, X and Y represent NR⁴.

In compounds of formula IA′, R⁵ and R⁶ may, for example, independentlyrepresent hydrogen, halo or substituted or unsubstituted C1-6 alkyl.Preferably R⁵ and R⁶ represent hydrogen.

In another particular embodiment of compounds of formula IA hereinafterreferred to as compounds of formula IA″, R³-L represents the moietyR³C≡C—.

In compounds of formula I, IA, IA′ and IA″, preferably G represents CO.Alternatively G may represent SO₂.

In compounds of formula I, IA, IA′ and IA″, W, Z, X and Y may forexample each represent CR⁴ especially CH. Alternatively X may representN and W, Z and Y may each represent CR⁴. In another example set ofcompounds each of X, Y and Z represents CR⁴ especially CH. In anotherexample set of compounds W is N.

Generally in compounds of formula I and IA L is preferably —(C═C)— or—C≡C—. Thus in one example set of compounds L represents —(C═C)—. Inanother example set of compounds L represents —C≡C—.

In compounds of formula I, IA, IA′ and IA″, R¹ may for example representsubstituted or unsubstituted aryl e.g. substituted phenyl. Example ofsubstituents include alkyl, alkyl(OH), —COOH, C(Me)₃, CH(Me)₂, halo,CF₃, cyano and methoxy. Alternatively it may represent substituted orunsubstituted pyridyl.

In compounds of formula I, IA, IA′ and IA″, R² preferably representshydrogen.

In compounds of formula I, IA, IA′ and IA″, R³ may for example representCR⁶′R⁷R⁸ wherein R⁶′ represents hydrogen, halo or substituted orunsubstituted C1-6alkyl; each of R⁷ and R⁸ is independently halo orsubstituted or unsubstituted C1-6 alkyl; or R⁷ and R⁸ together form asubstituted or unsubstituted C3-8 cycloalkyl ring. For example R⁷ mayrepresent lower alkyl (eg methyl). For example R⁸ may represent loweralkyl (e.g. methyl). In particular examples, R⁶′ may represent hydrogenand R⁷ and R⁸ may represent methyl. Alternatively each of R⁶′, R⁷ and R⁸may represent methyl. Alternatively each of R⁶′, R⁷ and R⁸ may representfluoro. Alternatively R⁶′ may represent hydrogen, and R⁷ and R⁸ togetherform a cyclohexyl ring.

In further embodiment of the compounds of formula I, IA, IA′ and IA″, R³may for example represent substituted or unsubstituted aryl orheteroaryl.

In a first alternative embodiment of the compounds of formula IA, R³ isCF₃, n-propyl, or a group of the formula

wherein R^(2′) is hydrogen or alkyl; and wherein two R^(2′) may jointogether to form a cycloalkyl or cycloheteroalkyl ring of 3-8 atoms;provided at least two of R^(2′) are alkyl.

With respect to the compounds of formula IA, R¹ may be substitutedphenyl, or alternatively, substituted or unsubstituted naphthyl.Further, R¹ may also be substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, and ina particular embodiment, the heteroaryl may be selected from the groupconsisting of pyrimidinyl, thiazolyl, and pyrazolyl. More particularly,the heteroaryl may be 2-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl or 4-pyridyl. In a particularembodiment, the substitution on the heteroaryl is selected from thegroup consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, trifluoromethyl, halo, methoxy,trifluoromethoxy, amino and carboxy. In a yet further particularembodiment, the substitution on heteroaryl is selected from the groupconsisting of tert-butyl, cyano, trifluoroalkyl, halo, nitro, methoxy,amino and carboxy.

In a still further aspect of the invention derived from the compounds offormula IA, and in a second alternative embodiment thereof, additionalcompounds are disclosed that are capable of modifying ion channels, invivo, having a formula II:

wherein L, W, X, Y, Z, R¹ are as defined with respect to formula IA, andR³ is as defined with respect to the first alternative embodiment offormula IA. In a particular embodiment of this second alternativeembodiment, R¹ may be substituted alkyl or —(CR² ₂)x-R⁴. If R¹ is —(CR²₂)x-R⁴, R² is hydrogen or alkyl; R^(4′) is R⁴ and R⁴ is as describedwith respect to formula I, and n is an integer of from 1-3. In this sameembodiment, R^(4′) may be selected from t-butyl, aryl, cycloalkyl,cycloheteroalkyl and heteroaryl; and alternately, R^(4′) may be selectedfrom substituted or unsubstituted phenyl, or naphthalenyl; furtheralternately, R⁴ may be selected from the group consisting ofcyclopropyl, cyclopentyl, or cyclohexyl; yet further, R⁴ may be selectedfrom substituted or unsubstituted pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, ormorpholinyl; still further, R^(4′) may be selected from substituted orunsubstituted pyridinyl or pyrimidinyl; and in addition, R^(4′) may beselected from substituted or unsubstituted furanyl, imidazolyl,thiophenyl, pyrazolyl, or thiazolyl. R^(4′) may also be selected fromsubstituted or unsubstituted benzodioxanyl, benzopyranyl, indolyl,indazolyl, methylenedioxyphenyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl,tetrahydroquinolinyl, tetrahydroisoquinolinyl, dihydroquinolinyl, ordihydroisoquinolinyl. In a particular embodiment, R^(4′) is t-Bu. Withrespect to all of the foregoing variants within this embodiment, x is 1or 2.

In a further embodiment in accordance with the compound of formula 2wherein R¹ is substituted alkyl, R¹ may be t-Bu, or may be substitutedor unsubstituted cycloalkyl, cycloheteroalkyl or heteroaryl, and mayparticularly be substituted or unsubstituted cyclopropyl, orcyclopentyl. R¹ may also be substituted or unsubstituted pyrrolidinyl,piperidinyl, or morpholinyl, or may also be substituted or unsubstitutedpyridinyl or pyrimidinyl, or further, may be substituted orunsubstituted furanyl, imidazolyl, thiophenyl, pyraxolyl, or thiazolyl.In a further embodiment, R¹ may also be substituted or unsubstitutedbenzodioxanyl, benzopyranyl, indolyl, indazolyl, methylenedioxyphenyl,quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, tetrahydroquinolinyl,tetrahydroisoquinolinyl, dihydroquinolinyl, or dihydroisoquinolinyl. Ina still further embodiment, R¹ may be substituted or unsubstituted aryl,and particularly, may be substituted or unsubstituted phenyl,naphthalenyl, 2-biphenyl, or 4-biphenyl.

In a still further aspect of the invention derived from the compounds offormula II, additional compounds are disclosed that are capable ofmodifying ion channels, in vivo, having a formula III, as follows:

wherein R^(1′) is R⁴; and x is selected from 1-5. In this embodiment, xmay be 1; R^(1′) may be selected from the group consisting of methyl,isopropyl, t-butyl, cyano, trifluoroalkyl, halo, nitro, methoxy,trifluoromethoxy, amino, alkylamino, dialkylamino, phenyl, SO₂Me;SO₂CF₃, SO₂NMe₂, and carboxy; the R^(1′) substitution may be at the4-position.

In a further aspect of the invention and with reference to the compoundsof formulas II and III, W, X, Y and Z may be CR⁴, and one or morethereof may be N. Particularly, W and Y may each be N with the remainderbeing CR⁴, and any two of the four positions may be N, also with theremainder of the positions being CR⁴. In this particularly describedembodiment, L may be —(CR⁵═CR⁶)—, with R⁵ and R⁶ both being hydrogen,and with each alternatively being methyl with the other being hydrogen.Further, L can be —(C≡C)—, and R³ can be t-Bu, I—Pr or CF₃.

In a further embodiment of the invention, other compounds are capable ofmodifying ion channels, in vivo, herein after referred to as compoundsof formula IB, in which B is a carbon atom joined to GNR¹R²; W is acarbon atom joined to LR³; and A, X, Y, Z are as defined for compoundsof formula I and preferably each represent CR⁴ especially CH; G is asdefined for compounds of formula I and is preferably CO; and R³, L, R¹and R² are each as defined for compounds of formula I and are preferablyas defined for compounds of formula IA, IA′ and IA″.

In yet further particular embodiments, the compounds of the inventionare set forth and may be selected from a comprehensive listing of suchcompounds, set forth later on herein in Table 1. The Table contains inexcess of 440 compounds that have been synthesized and have as a group,demonstrated activity in their capacity of modifying ion channels, invivo, and thereby functioning in the therapeutic applications set forthherein in relation to capsaicin and the vanilloid receptor.

The compounds of the present invention are useful for the treatment ofinflammatory pain and associated hyperalgesia and allodynia. They arealso useful for the treatment of neuropathic pain and associatedhyperalgesis and allodynia (e.g. trigeminal or herpetic neuralgia,diabetic neuropathy, causalgia, sympathetically maintained pain anddeafferentation syndromes such as brachial plexus avulsion). Thecompounds of the present invention are also useful as anti-inflammatoryagents for the treatment of arthritis, and as agents to treatParkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, stroke, uveitis, asthma,myocardial infarction, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury,neurodegenerative disorders, alopecia (hair loss), inflammatory boweldisease and autoimmune disorders, renal disorders, obesity, eatingdisorders, cancer, schizophrenia, epilepsy, sleeping disorders,cognition, depression, anxiety, blood pressure, lipid disorders, andatherosclerosis.

In one aspect, this invention provides compounds which are capable ofmodifying ion channels, in vivo. Representative ion channels so modifiedinclude voltage-gated channels and ligand-gated channels, includingcation channels such as vanilloid channels.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides pharmaceuticalcompositions comprising a compound of the invention, and apharmaceutical carrier, excipient or diluent. In this aspect of theinvention, the pharmaceutical composition can comprise one or more ofthe compounds described herein.

In a further aspect of the invention, a method is disclosed for treatingmammals, including humans, as well as lower mammalian species,susceptible to or afflicted with a condition from among those listedherein, and particularly, such condition as may be associated with e.g.arthritis, uveitis, asthma, myocardial infarction, traumatic braininjury, acute spinal cord injury, alopecia (hair loss), inflammatorybowel disease and autoimmune disorders, which method comprisesadministering an effective amount of one or more of the pharmaceuticalcompositions just described.

In yet another method of treatment aspect, this invention provides amethod of treating a mammal susceptible to or afflicted with a conditionthat gives rise to pain responses or that relates to imbalances in themaintenance of basal activity of sensory nerves. Compounds have use asanalgesics for the treatment of pain of various geneses or etiology, forexample acute, inflammatory pain (such as pain associated withosteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis); various neuropathic painsyndromes (such as post-herpetic neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, reflexsympathetic dystrophy, diabetic neuropathy, Guillian Barre syndrome,fibromyalgia, phantom limb pain, post-masectomy pain, peripheralneuropathy, HIV neuropathy, and chemotherapy-induced and otheriatrogenic neuropathies); visceral pain, (such as that associated withgastroesophageal reflex disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatorybowel disease, pancreatitis, and various gynecological and urologicaldisorders), dental pain and headache (such as migraine, cluster headacheand tension headache).

In additional method of treatment aspects, this invention providesmethods of treating a mammal susceptible to or afflicted withneurodegenerative diseases and disorders such as, for exampleParkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis;diseases and disorders which are mediated by or result inneuroinflammation such as, for example traumatic brain injury, stroke,and encephalitis; centrally-mediated neuropsychiatric diseases anddisorders such as, for example depression mania, bipolar disease,anxiety, schizophrenia, eating disorders, sleep disorders and cognitiondisorders; epilepsy and seizure disorders; prostate, bladder and boweldysfunction such as, for example urinary incontinence, urinaryhesitancy, rectal hypersensitivity, fecal incontinence, benign prostatichypertrophy and inflammatory bowel disease; respiratory and airwaydisease and disorders such as, for example, allergic rhinitis, asthmaand reactive airway disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease;diseases and disorders which are mediated by or result in inflammationsuch as, for example rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, myocardialinfarction, various autoimmune diseases and disorders, uveitis andatherosclerosis; itch/pruritus such as, for example psoriasis; alopecia(hair loss); obesity; lipid disorders; cancer; blood pressure; spinalcord injury; and renal disorders method comprises administering aneffective condition-treating or condition-preventing amount of one ormore of the pharmaceutical compositions just described.

In additional aspects, this invention provides methods for synthesizingthe compounds of the invention, with representative synthetic protocolsand pathways disclosed later on herein.

Other objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled inthe art from a consideration of the ensuing detailed description, inconjunction with the following illustrative drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1: A graph demonstrating the activity of compound 155 in inhibitinga capsaicin induced intracellular calcium current. Calcium ion flux isreflected by fluorescence.

FIG. 2: A graph demonstrating the activity of compound 155 in inhibitinga capsaicin induced intracellular calcium current. Capsaicinadministered in the presence of compound 155 produces less calciuminflux in neurons than capsaicin administered to the same neurons alone.

FIG. 3: A graph demonstrating the activity of compound 3 in inhibiting acapsaicin induced intracellular calcium current.

FIG. 4: A graph demonstrating the activity of compound 2 in inhibiting acapsaicin induced intracellular calcium current.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions

When describing the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containingsuch compounds and methods of using such compounds and compositions, thefollowing terms have the following meanings unless otherwise indicated.It should also be understood that any of the moieties defined forthbelow may be substituted with a variety of substituents, and that therespective definitions are intended to include such substituted moietieswithin their scope. By way of non-limiting example, such substituentsmay include e.g. halo (such as fluoro, chloro, bromo), —CN, —CF₃, —OH,—OCF₃, C₂₋₆ alkenyl, C₃₋₆ alkynyl, C₁₋₆ alkoxy, aryl and di-C₁₋₆alkylamino.

“Acyl” refers to a radical —C(O)R, where R is hydrogen, alkyl,cycloalkyl, cycloheteroalkyl, aryl, arylalkyl, heteroalkyl, heteroaryl,heteroarylalkyl as defined herein. Representative examples include, butare not limited to, formyl, acetyl, cylcohexylcarbonyl,cyclohexylmethylcarbonyl, benzoyl, benzylcarbonyl and the like.

“Acylamino” refers to a radical —NR′C(O)R, where R′ is hydrogen, alkyl,cycloalkyl, cycloheteroalkyl, aryl, arylalkyl, heteroalkyl, heteroaryl,heteroarylalkyl and R is hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl,cycloheteroalkyl, aryl, arylalkyl, heteroalkyl, heteroaryl orheteroarylalkyl, as defined herein. Representative examples include, butare not limited to, formylamino, acetylamino, cyclohexylcarbonylamino,cyclohexylmethyl-carbonylamino, benzoylamino, benzylcarbonylamino andthe like.

“Acyloxy” refers to the group —OC(O)R where R is hydrogen, alkyl, arylor cycloalkyl.

“Substituted alkenyl” includes those groups recited in the definition of“substituted” herein, and particularly refers to an alkenyl group having1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents, andparticularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O), aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Alkoxy” refers to the group —OR where R is alkyl. Particular alkoxygroups include, by way of example, methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,isopropoxy, n-butoxy, tert-butoxy, sec-butoxy, n-pentoxy, n-hexoxy,1,2-dimethylbutoxy, and the like.

“Substituted alkoxy” includes those groups recited in the definition of“substituted” herein, and particularly refers to an alkoxy group having1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents, andparticularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,heteroaryl, hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy,thioaryloxy, thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O)—, aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— andaryl-S(O)₂—.

“Alkoxycarbonylamino” refers to the group —NRC(O)OR′ where R ishydrogen, alkyl, aryl or cycloalkyl, and R′ is alkyl or cycloalkyl.

“Aliphatic” refers to hydrocarbyl organic compounds or groupscharacterized by a straight, branched or cyclic arrangement of theconstituent carbon atoms and an absence of aromatic unsaturation.Aliphatics include, without limitation, alkyl, alkylene, alkenyl,alkenylene, alkynyl and alkynylene. Aliphatic groups typically have from1 or 2 to about 12 carbon atoms.

“Alkyl” refers to monovalent saturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl groupsparticularly having up to about 11 carbon atoms, more particularly as alower alkyl, from 1 to 8 carbon atoms and still more particularly, from1 to 6 carbon atoms. The hydrocarbon chain may be eitherstraight-chained or branched. This term is exemplified by groups such asmethyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, tert-butyl,n-hexyl, n-octyl, tert-octyl and the like. The term “lower alkyl” refersto alkyl groups having 1 to 6 carbon atoms. The term “alkyl” alsoincludes “cycloalkyls” as defined below.

“Substituted alkyl” includes those groups recited in the definition of“substituted” herein, and particularly refers to an alkyl group having 1or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents, andparticularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, heteroaryl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy,thioaryloxy, thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O), aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂—, andaryl-S(O)₂—.

“Alkylene” refers to divalent saturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl groupsparticularly having up to about 11 carbon atoms and more particularly 1to 6 carbon atoms which can be straight-chained or branched. This termis exemplified by groups such as methylene (—CH₂—), ethylene (—CH₂CH₂—),the propylene isomers (e.g., —CH₂CH₂CH₂— and —CH(CH₃)CH₂—) and the like.

“Substituted alkylene” includes those groups recited in the definitionof “substituted” herein, and particularly refers to an alkylene grouphaving 1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents,and particularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy,substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy, thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O),aryl-S(O), alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Alkenyl” refers to monovalent olefinically unsaturated hydrocarbylgroups preferably having up to about 11 carbon atoms, particularly, from2 to 8 carbon atoms, and more particularly, from 2 to 6 carbon atoms,which can be straight-chained or branched and having at least 1 andparticularly from 1 to 2 sites of olefinic unsaturation. Particularalkenyl groups include ethenyl (—CH═CH₂), n-propenyl (—CH₂CH═CH₂),isopropenyl (—C(CH₃)═CH₂), vinyl and substituted vinyl, and the like.

“Alkenylene” refers to divalent olefinically unsaturated hydrocarbylgroups particularly having up to about 11 carbon atoms and moreparticularly 2 to 6 carbon atoms which can be straight-chained orbranched and having at least 1 and particularly from 1 to 2 sites ofolefinic unsaturation. This term is exemplified by groups such asethenylene (—CH═CH—), the propenylene isomers (e.g., —CH═CHCH₂— and—C(CH₃)═CH— and —CH═C(CH₃)—) and the like.

“Alkynyl” refers to acetylenically unsaturated hydrocarbyl groupsparticularly having up to about II carbon atoms and more particularly 2to 6 carbon atoms which can be straight-chained or branched and havingat least 1 and particularly from 1 to 2 sites of alkynyl unsaturation.Particular non-limiting examples of alkynyl groups include acetylenic,ethynyl (—C≡CH), propargyl (—CH₂C—CH), and the like.

“Substituted alkynyl” includes those groups recited in the definition of“substituted” herein, and particularly refers to an alkynyl group having1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents, andparticularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O), aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Alkanoyl” or “acyl” as used herein refers to the group R—C(O), where Ris hydrogen or alkyl as defined above.

“Aryl” refers to a monovalent aromatic hydrocarbon group derived by theremoval of one hydrogen atom from a single carbon atom of a parentaromatic ring system. Typical aryl groups include, but are not limitedto, groups derived from aceanthrylene, acenaphthylene,acephenanthrylene, anthracene, azulene, benzene, chrysene, coronene,fluoranthene, fluorene, hexacene, hexaphene, hexylene, as-indacene,s-indacene, indane, indene, naphthalene, octacene, octaphene, octalene,ovalene, penta-2,4-diene, pentacene, pentalene, pentaphene, perylene,phenalene, phenanthrene, picene, pleiadene, pyrene, pyranthrene,rubicene, triphenylene, trinaphthalene and the like. Particularly, anaryl group comprises from 6 to 14 carbon atoms.

“Substituted Aryl” includes those groups recited in the definition of“substituted” herein, and particularly refers to an aryl group that mayoptionally be substituted with 1 or more substituents, for instance from1 to 5 substituents, particularly 1 to 3 substituents, selected from thegroup consisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkenyl, substitutedalkenyl, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, alkyl, substitutedalkyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy, thiol,alkyl-S(O)—, aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Fused Aryl” refers to an aryl having two of its ring carbon in commonwith a second aryl ring or with an aliphatic ring.

“Alkaryl” refers to an aryl group, as defined above, substituted withone or more alkyl groups, as defined above.

“Aralkyl” or “arylalkyl” refers to an alkyl group, as defined above,substituted with one or more aryl groups, as defined above.

“Aryloxy” refers to —O-aryl groups wherein “aryl” is as defined above.

“Alkylamino” refers to the group alkyl-NR′R″, wherein each of R′ and R″are independently selected from hydrogen and alkyl.

“Arylamino” refers to the group aryl-NR′R″, wherein each of R′ and R″are independently selected from hydrogen, aryl and heteroaryl.

“Alkoxyamino” refers to a radical —N(H)OR where R represents an alkyl orcycloalkyl group as defined herein.

“Alkoxycarbonyl” refers to a radical —C(O)-alkoxy where alkoxy is asdefined herein.

“Alkylarylamino” refers to a radical —NRR′ where R represents an alkylor cycloalkyl group and R′ is an aryl as defined herein.

“Alkylsulfonyl” refers to a radical —S(O)₂R where R is an alkyl orcycloalkyl group as defined herein Representative examples include, butare not limited to, methylsulfonyl, ethylsulfonyl, propylsulfonyl,butylsulfonyl and the like.

“Alkylsulfinyl” refers to a radical —S(O)R where R is an alkyl orcycloalkyl group as defined herein. Representative examples include, butare not limited to, methylsulfinyl, ethylsulfinyl, propylsulfinyl,butylsulfinyl and the like.

“Alkylthio” refers to a radical —SR where R is an alkyl or cycloalkylgroup as defined herein that may be optionally substituted as definedherein. Representative examples include, but are not limited to,methylthio, ethylthio, propylthio, butylthio, and the like.

“Amino” refers to the radical —NH₂—.

“Substituted amino” includes those groups recited in the definition of“substituted” herein, and particularly refers to the group —N(R)₂ whereeach R is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen,alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl,substituted alkynyl, aryl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, and whereboth R groups are joined to form an alkylene group. When both R groupsare hydrogen, —N(R)₂ is an amino group.

“Aminocarbonyl” refers to the group —C(O)NRR where each R isindependently hydrogen, alkyl, aryl and cycloalkyl, or where the Rgroups are joined to form an alkylene group.

“Aminocarbonylamino” refers to the group —NRC(O)NRR where each R isindependently hydrogen, alkyl, aryl or cycloalkyl, or where two R groupsare joined to form an alkylene group.

“Aminocarbonyloxy” refers to the group —OC(O)NRR where each R isindependently hydrogen, alkyl, aryl or cycloalkyl, or where the R groupsare joined to form an alkylene group.

“Arylalkyloxy” refers to an —O-arylalkyl radical where arylalkyl is asdefined herein.

“Arylamino” means a radical —NHR where R represents an aryl group asdefined herein.

“Aryloxycarbonyl” refers to a radical —C(O)—O-aryl where aryl is asdefined herein.

“Arylsulfonyl” refers to a radical —S(O)₂R where R is an aryl orheteroaryl group as defined herein.

“Azido” refers to the radical —N₃.

“Carbamoyl” refers to the radical —C(O)N(R)₂ where each R group isindependently hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl or aryl, as defined herein,which may be optionally substituted as defined herein.

“Carboxy” refers to the radical —C(O)OH.

“Carboxyamino” refers to the radical —N(H)C(O)OH.

“Cycloalkyl” refers to cyclic hydrocarbyl groups having from 3 to about10 carbon atoms and having a single cyclic ring or multiple condensedrings, including fused and bridged ring systems, which optionally can besubstituted with from 1 to 3 alkyl groups. Such cycloalkyl groupsinclude, by way of example, single ring structures such as cyclopropyl,cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclooctyl, 1-methylcyclopropyl,2-methylcyclopentyl, 2-methylcyclooctyl, and the like, and multiple ringstructures such as adamantanyl, and the like.

“Substituted cycloalkyl” includes those groups recited in the definitionof “substituted” herein, and particularly refers to a cycloalkyl grouphaving 1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents,and particularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O)—, aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Cycloalkoxy” refers to the group —OR where R is cycloalkyl. Suchcycloalkoxy groups include, by way of example, cyclopentoxy, cyclohexoxyand the like.

“Cycloalkenyl” refers to cyclic hydrocarbyl groups having from 3 to 10carbon atoms and having a single cyclic ring or multiple condensedrings, including fused and bridged ring systems and having at least oneand particularly from 1 to 2 sites of olefinic unsaturation. Suchcycloalkenyl groups include, by way of example, single ring structuressuch as cyclohexenyl, cyclopentenyl, cyclopropenyl, and the like.

“Substituted cycloalkenyl” includes those groups recited in thedefinition of “substituted” herein, and particularly refers to acycloalkenyl group having 1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to5 substituents, and particularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected fromthe group consisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substitutedalkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O)—, aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Fused Cycloalkenyl” refers to a cycloalkenyl having two of its ringcarbon atoms in common with a second aliphatic or aromatic ring andhaving its olefinic unsaturation located to impart aromaticity to thecycloalkenyl ring.

“Cyanato” refers to the radical —OCN.

“Cyano” refers to the radical —CN.

“Dialkylamino” means a radical —NRR′ where R and R′ independentlyrepresent an alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, substituted aryl,cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloheteroalkyl, substitutedcycloheteroalkyl, heteroaryl, or substituted heteroaryl group as definedherein.

“Ethenyl” refers to substituted or unsubstituted —(C═C)—.

“Ethylene” refers to substituted or unsubstituted —(C—C)—.

“Ethynyl” refers to —(C≡C)—.

“Halo” or “halogen” refers to fluoro, chloro, bromo and iodo. Preferredhalo groups are either fluoro or chloro.

“Hydroxy” refers to the radical —OH.

“Nitro” refers to the radical —NO₂.

“Substituted” refers to a group in which one or more hydrogen atoms areeach independently replaced with the same or different substituent(s).Typical substituents include, but are not limited to, —X, —R¹⁴, —O⁻, ═O,—OR⁴, —SR¹⁴, —S—, ═5, —NR¹⁴R¹⁵, ═NR¹⁴, —CX₃, —CF₃, —CN, —OCN, —SCN, —NO,—NO₂, ═N₂, —N₃, —S(O)₂O⁻, —S(O)₂OH, —S(O)₂R¹⁴, —OS(O₂)O—, —OS(O)₂R¹⁴,—P(O)(O⁻)₂, —P(O)(OR¹⁴)(O⁻), —OP(O)(OR¹⁴)(OR¹⁵), —C(O)R¹⁴, —C(S)R¹⁴,—C(O)OR¹⁴, —C(O)NR¹⁴R¹⁵, —C(O)O⁻, —C(S)OR¹⁴, —NR¹⁶C(O)NR¹⁴R¹⁵,—NR¹⁶C(S)NR¹⁴R¹⁵, —NR¹⁷C(R¹⁶)NR¹⁴R¹⁵ and —C(R¹⁶)NR¹⁴R¹⁵, where each X isindependently a halogen; each R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ are independentlyhydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, substituted alkyl, arylalkyl,substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloheteroalkyl,substituted cycloheteroalkyl, heteroalkyl, substituted heteroalkyl,heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heteroarylalkyl, substitutedheteroarylalkyl, —NR¹⁸R¹⁹, —C(O)R¹⁸ or —S(O)₂R¹⁸ or optionally R¹⁸ andR¹⁹ together with the atom to which they are both attached form acycloheteroalkyl or substituted cycloheteroalkyl ring; and R¹⁸ and R¹⁹are independently hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, substitutedalkyl, arylalkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted alkyl,cycloheteroalkyl, substituted cycloheteroalkyl, heteroalkyl, substitutedheteroalkyl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heteroarylalkyl orsubstituted heteroarylalkyl.

Examples of representative substituted aryls include the following

In these formulae one of R^(6′) and R^(7′) may be hydrogen and at leastone of R^(6′) and R^(7′) is each independently selected from alkyl,alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloheteroalkyl, alkanoyl, alkoxy, aryloxy,heteroaryloxy, alkylamino, arylamino, heteroarylamino, NR¹⁰COR¹¹,NR¹⁰SOR¹¹, NR¹⁰SO₂R¹⁴, COOalkyl, COOaryl, CONR¹⁰R¹¹, CONR¹⁰OR¹¹,NR¹⁰R¹¹, SO₂NR¹⁰R¹¹, S-alkyl, S-alkyl, SOalkyl, SO₂alkyl, Saryl, SOaryl,SO₂aryl; or R^(6′) and R⁷ may be joined to form a cyclic ring (saturatedor unsaturated) from 5 to 8 atoms, optionally containing one or moreheteroatoms selected from the group N, O or S. R¹⁰, R¹¹, and R¹² areindependently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, perfluoroalkyl,cycloalkyl, cycloheteroalkyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl,substituted or hetero alkyl or the like.

“Hetero” when used to describe a compound or a group present on acompound means that one or more carbon atoms in the compound or grouphave been replaced by a nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur heteroatom. Heteromay be applied to any of the hydrocarbyl groups described above such asalkyl, e.g. heteroalkyl, cycloalkyl, e.g. cycloheteroalkyl, aryl, e.g.heteroaryl, cycloalkenyl, cycloheteroalkenyl, and the like having from 1to 5, and especially from 1 to 3 heteroatoms.

“Heteroaryl” refers to a monovalent heteroaromatic group derived by theremoval of one hydrogen atom from a single atom of a parentheteroaromatic ring system. Typical heteroaryl groups include, but arenot limited to, groups derived from acridine, arsindole, carbazole,β-carboline, chromane, chromene, cinnoline, furan, imidazole, indazole,indole, indoline, indolizine, isobenzofuran, isochromene, isoindole,isoindoline, isoquinoline, isothiazole, isoxazole, naphthyridine,oxadiazole, oxazole, perimidine, phenanthridine, phenanthroline,phenazine, phthalazine, pteridine, purine, pyran, pyrazine, pyrazole,pyridazine, pyridine, pyrimidine, pyrrole, pyrrolizine, quinazoline,quinoline, quinolizine, quinoxaline, tetrazole, thiadiazole, thiazole,thiophene, triazole, xanthene, and the like. Preferably, the heteroarylgroup is between 5-20 membered heteroaryl, with 5-10 membered heteroarylbeing particularly preferred. Particular heteroaryl groups are thosederived from thiophene, pyrrole, benzothiophene, benzofuran, indole,pyridine, quinoline, imidazole, oxazole and pyrazine.

Examples of representative heteroaryls include the following:

wherein each Y is selected from carbonyl, N, NR⁴, O, and S.

Examples of representative cycloheteroalkyls include the following

wherein each X is selected from CR⁴ ₂, NR⁴, O and S; and each Y isselected from NR⁴, O and S, and where R^(6′) is R².

Examples of representative cycloheteroalkenyls include the following:

wherein each X is selected from CR⁴, NR⁴, O and S; and each Y isselected from carbonyl, N, NR⁴, O and S.

Examples of representative aryl having hetero atoms containingsubstitution include the following:

wherein each X is selected from C—R⁴, CR⁴ ₂, NR⁴, O and S; and each Y isselected from carbonyl, NR⁴, O and S.

“Hetero substituent” refers to a halo, O, S or N atom-containingfunctionality that may be present as an R⁴ in a R⁴C group present assubstituents directly on A, B, W, X, Y or Z of the compounds of thisinvention or may be present as a substituent in the “substituted” aryland aliphatic groups present in the compounds.

Examples of hetero substituents include:

halo,

—NO₂, —NH₂, —NHR, —N(R)₂,

—NRCOR, —NRSOR, —NRSO₂R, OH, CN, CO₂R,

—CO₂H,

—R—OH, —O—R, —COOR,

—CON(R)₂, —CONROR,

—SO₂H, —R—S, —SO₂N(R)₂,

—S(O)R, —S(O)₂R, wherein each R is independently an aryl or aliphatic,optionally with substitution. Among hetero substituents containing Rgroups, preference is given to those materials having aryl and alkyl Rgroups as defined herein. Preferred hetero substituents are those listedabove.

As used herein, the term “cycloheteroalkyl” refers to a stableheterocyclic non-aromatic ring and fused rings containing one or moreheteroatoms independently selected from N, O and S. A fused heterocyclicring system may include carbocyclic rings and need only include oneheterocyclic ring. Examples of heterocyclic rings include, but are notlimited to, piperazinyl, homopiperazinyl, piperidinyl and morpholinyl,and are shown in the following illustrative examples:

optionally substituted with one or more groups selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O), aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.Substituting groups include carbonyl or thiocarbonyl which provide, forexample, lactam and urea derivatives. In the examples, M is CR⁷, NR², O,or S; Q is O, NR² or S. R⁷ and R⁸ are independently selected from thegroup consisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substitutedalkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O), aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Dihydroxyphosphoryl” refers to the radical —PO(OH)₂.

“Substituted dihydroxyphosphoryl” includes those groups recited in thedefinition of “substituted” herein, and particularly refers to adihydroxyphosphoryl radical wherein one or both of the hydroxyl groupsare substituted. Suitable substituents are described in detail below.

“Aminohydroxyphosphoryl” refers to the radical —PO(OH)NH₂.

“Substituted aminohydroxyphosphoryl” includes those groups recited inthe definition of “substituted” herein, and particularly refers to anaminohydroxyphosphoryl wherein the amino group is substituted with oneor two substituents. Suitable substituents are described in detailbelow. In certain embodiments, the hydroxyl group can also besubstituted.

“Thioalkoxy” refers to the group —SR where R is alkyl.

“Substituted thioalkoxy” includes those groups recited in the definitionof “substituted” herein, and particularly refers to a thioalkoxy grouphaving 1 or more substituents, for instance from 1 to 5 substituents,and particularly from 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the groupconsisting of acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, alkoxy, substituted alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, amino, substituted amino,aminocarbonyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, aryloxy,azido, carboxyl, cyano, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, halogen,hydroxyl, keto, nitro, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy,thioketo, thiol, alkyl-S(O)—, aryl-S(O)—, alkyl-S(O)₂— and aryl-S(O)₂—.

“Sulfanyl” refers to the radical HS—. “Substituted sulfanyl” refers to aradical such as RS— wherein R is any substituent described herein.

“Sulfonyl” refers to the divalent radical —S(O₂)—. “Substitutedsulfonyl” refers to a radical such as R—(O₂)S— wherein R is anysubstituent described herein. “Aminosulfonyl” or “Sulfonamide” refers tothe radical H₂N(O₂)S—, and “substituted aminosulfonyl” “substitutedsulfonamide” refers to a radical such as R₂N(O₂)S— wherein each R isindependently any substituent described herein.

“Sulfone” refers to the group —SO₂R. In particular embodiments, R isselected from H, lower alkyl, alkyl, aryl and heteroaryl.

“Thioaryloxy” refers to the group —SR where R is aryl.

“Thioketo” refers to the group ═S.

“Thiol” refers to the group —SH.

One having ordinary skill in the art of organic synthesis will recognizethat the maximum number of heteroatoms in a stable, chemically feasibleheterocyclic ring, whether it is aromatic or non aromatic, is determinedby the size of the ring, the degree of unsaturation and the valence ofthe heteroatoms. In general, a heterocyclic ring may have one to fourheteroatoms so long as the heteroaromatic ring is chemically feasibleand stable.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable” means approved by a regulatory agency ofthe Federal or a state government or listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia orother generally recognized pharmacopoeia for use in animals, and moreparticularly in humans.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers to a salt of a compound of theinvention that is pharmaceutically acceptable and that possesses thedesired pharmacological activity of the parent compound. Such saltsinclude: (I) acid addition salts, formed with inorganic acids such ashydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid,phosphoric acid, and the like; or formed with organic acids such asacetic acid, propionic acid, hexanoic acid, cyclopentanepropionic acid,glycolic acid, pyruvic acid, lactic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid,malic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid,benzoic acid, 3-(4-hydroxybenzoyl)benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, mandelicacid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, 1,2-ethane-disulfonicacid, 2-hydroxyethanesulfonic acid, benzenesulfonic acid,4-chlorobenzenesulfonic acid, 2-naphthalenesulfonic acid,4-toluenesulfonic acid, camphorsulfonic acid,4-methylbicyclo[2.2.2]-oct-2-ene-1-carboxylic acid, glucoheptonic acid,3-phenylpropionic acid, trimethylacetic acid, tertiary butylacetic acid,lauryl sulfuric acid, gluconic acid, glutamic acid, hydroxynaphthoicacid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, muconic acid, and the like; or (2)salts formed when an acidic proton present in the parent compound eitheris replaced by a metal ion, e.g., an alkali metal ion, an alkaline earthion, or an aluminum ion; or coordinates with an organic base such asethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, N-methylglucamine and thelike. Salts further include, by way of example only, sodium, potassium,calcium, magnesium, ammonium, tetraalkylammonium, and the like; and whenthe compound contains a basic functionality, salts of non toxic organicor inorganic acids, such as hydrochloride, hydrobromide, tartrate,mesylate, acetate, maleate, oxalate and the like. The term“pharmaceutically acceptable cation” refers to a non toxic, acceptablecationic counter-ion of an acidic functional group. Such cations areexemplified by sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, ammonium,tetraalkylammonium cations, and the like.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle” refers to a diluent, adjuvant,excipient or carrier with which a compound of the invention isadministered.

“Preventing” or “prevention” refers to a reduction in risk of acquiringa disease or disorder (i.e., causing at least one of the clinicalsymptoms of the disease not to develop in a subject that may be exposedto or predisposed to the disease but does not yet experience or displaysymptoms of the disease).

“Subject” includes humans. The terms “human,” “patient” and “subject”are used interchangeably herein.

“Therapeutically effective amount” means the amount of a compound that,when administered to a subject for treating a disease, is sufficient toeffect such treatment for the disease. The “therapeutically effectiveamount” can vary depending on the compound, the disease and itsseverity, and the age, weight, etc., of the subject to be treated.

“Treating” or “treatment” of any disease or disorder refers, in oneembodiment, to ameliorating the disease or disorder (i.e., arresting orreducing the development of the disease or at least one of the clinicalsymptoms thereof). In another embodiment “treating” or “treatment”refers to ameliorating at least one physical parameter, which may not bediscernible by the subject. In yet another embodiment, “treating” or“treatment” refers to modulating the disease or disorder, eitherphysically, (e.g., stabilization of a discernible symptom),physiologically, (e.g., stabilization of a physical parameter), or both.In yet another embodiment, “treating” or “treatment” refers to delayingthe onset of the disease or disorder.

“Prodrugs” refers to compounds, including derivatives of the compoundsof the invention, which have cleavable groups and become by solvolysisor under physiological conditions the compounds of the invention whichare pharmaceutically active in vivo. Such examples include, but are notlimited to, choline ester derivatives and the like, N-alkylmorpholineesters and the like.

Other derivatives of the compounds of this invention have activity inboth their acid and acid derivative forms, but in the acid sensitiveform often offers advantages of solubility, tissue compatibility, ordelayed release in the mammalian organism (see, Bundgard, H., Design ofProdrugs, pp. 7-9, 21-24, Elsevier, Amsterdam 1985). Prodrugs includeacid derivatives well know to practitioners of the art, such as, forexample, esters prepared by reaction of the parent acid with a suitablealcohol, or amides prepared by reaction of the parent acid compound witha substituted or unsubstituted amine, or acid anhydrides, or mixedanhydrides. Simple aliphatic or aromatic esters, amides and anhydridesderived from acidic groups pendant on the compounds of this inventionare preferred prodrugs. In some cases it is desirable to prepare doubleester type prodrugs such as (acyloxy)alkyl esters or((alkoxycarbonyl)oxy)alkylesters. Preferred are the C1 to C₈ alkyl,C₂-C₈ alkenyl, aryl, C₇-C₁₂ substituted aryl, and C₇-C₁₂ arylalkylesters of the compounds of the invention.

It is also to be understood that compounds that have the same molecularformula but differ in the nature or sequence of bonding of their atomsor the arrangement of their atoms in space are termed “isomers”. Isomersthat differ in the arrangement of their atoms in space are termed“stereoisomers”.

Stereoisomers that are not mirror images of one another are termed“diastereomers” and those that are non-superimposable mirror images ofeach other are termed “enantiomers”. When a compound has an asymmetriccenter, for example, it is bonded to four different groups, a pair ofenantiomers is possible. An enantiomer can be characterized by theabsolute configuration of its asymmetric center and is described by theR- and S-sequencing rules of Cahn and Prelog, or by the manner in whichthe molecule rotates the plane of polarized light and designated asdextrorotatory or levorotatory (i.e., as (+) or (−)-isomersrespectively). A chiral compound can exist as either individualenantiomer or as a mixture thereof. A mixture containing equalproportions of the enantiomers is called a “racemic mixture”.

The compounds of this invention may possess one or more asymmetriccenters; such compounds can therefore be produced as individual (R)— or(S)-stereoisomers or as mixtures thereof. Unless indicated otherwise,the description or naming of a particular compound in the specificationand claims is intended to include both individual enantiomers andmixtures, racemic or otherwise, thereof. The methods for thedetermination of stereochemistry and the separation of stereoisomers arewell-known in the art.

The Compounds

As set forth earlier herein, the compounds of the present invention areuseful for preventing and/or treating a broad range of conditions, amongthem, arthritis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke,uveitis, asthma, myocardial infarction, the treatment and prophylaxis ofpain syndromes (acute and chronic or neuropathic), traumatic braininjury, acute spinal cord injury, neurodegenerative disorders, alopecia(hair loss), inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disorders orconditions in mammals.

In order that the invention described herein may be more fullyunderstood, the following structures representing compounds typical ofthe invention are set forth. It should be understood that these examplesare for illustrative purposes only and are not to be construed aslimiting this invention in any manner.

Accordingly, additional groups of particular compounds are provided.Thus, and as discussed earlier herein, suitable compounds capable ofmodifying ion channels in vivo, may be selected from those listed inTable 1, below, and may be prepared either as shown or in the form of apharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof; andisomers and stereoisomers thereof. All such variants are contemplatedherein and are within the scope of the present invention.

In certain aspects, the present invention provides prodrugs andderivatives of the compounds according to the formulae above. Prodrugsare derivatives of the compounds of the invention, which have cleavablegroups and become by solvolysis or under physiological conditions thecompounds of the invention, which are pharmaceutically active, in vivo.Such examples include, but are not limited to, choline ester derivativesand the like, N-alkylmorpholine esters and the like.

Other derivatives of the compounds of this invention have activity inboth their acid and acid derivative forms, but the acid sensitive formoften offers advantages of solubility, tissue compatibility, or delayedrelease in the mammalian organism (see, Bundgard, H., Design ofProdrugs, pp. 7-9, 21-24, Elsevier, Amsterdam 1985). Prodrugs includeacid derivatives well know to practitioners of the art, such as, forexample, esters prepared by reaction of the parent acid with a suitablealcohol, or amides prepared by reaction of the parent acid compound witha substituted or unsubstituted amine, or acid anhydrides, or mixedanhydrides. Simple aliphatic or aromatic esters, amides and anhydridesderived from acidic groups pendant on the compounds of this inventionare preferred prodrugs. In some cases it is desirable to prepare doubleester type prodrugs such as (acyloxy)alkyl esters or((alkoxycarbonyl)oxy)alkylesters. Preferred are the C₁ to C₈ alkyl,C₂-C₈ alkenyl, aryl, C₇-C₁₂ substituted aryl, and C₇-C₁₂ arylalkylesters of the compounds of the invention.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

When employed as pharmaceuticals, the amide compounds of this inventionare typically administered in the form of a pharmaceutical composition.Such compositions can be prepared in a manner well known in thepharmaceutical art and comprise at least one active compound.

Generally, the compounds of this invention are administered in apharmaceutically effective amount. The amount of the compound actuallyadministered will typically be determined by a physician, in the lightof the relevant circumstances, including the condition to be treated,the chosen route of administration, the actual compound administered,the age, weight, and response of the individual patient, the severity ofthe patient's symptoms, and the like.

The pharmaceutical compositions of this invention can be administered bya variety of routes including by way of non limiting example, oral,rectal, transdermal, subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular andintranasal. Depending upon the intended route of delivery, the compoundsof this invention are preferably formulated as either injectable or oralcompositions or as salves, as lotions or as patches all for transdermaladministration.

The compositions for oral administration can take the form of bulkliquid solutions or suspensions, or bulk powders. More commonly,however, the compositions are presented in unit dosage forms tofacilitate accurate dosing. The term “unit dosage forms” refers tophysically discrete units suitable as unitary dosages for human subjectsand other mammals, each unit containing a predetermined quantity ofactive material calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect, inassociation with a suitable pharmaceutical excipient. Typical unitdosage forms include prefilled, premeasured ampules or syringes of theliquid compositions or pills, tablets, capsules or the like in the caseof solid compositions. In such compositions, the furansulfonic acidcompound is usually a minor component (from about 0.1 to about 50% byweight or preferably from about 1 to about 40% by weight) with theremainder being various vehicles or carriers and processing aids helpfulfor forming the desired dosing form.

Liquid forms suitable for oral administration may include a suitableaqueous or nonaqueous vehicle with buffers, suspending and dispensingagents, colorants, flavors and the like. Solid forms may include, forexample, any of the following ingredients, or compounds of a similarnature: a binder such as microcrystalline cellulose, gum tragacanth orgelatin; an excipient such as starch or lactose, a disintegrating agentsuch as alginic acid, Primogel, or corn starch; a lubricant such asmagnesium stearate; a glidant such as colloidal silicon dioxide; asweetening agent such as sucrose or saccharin; or a flavoring agent suchas peppermint, methyl salicylate, or orange flavoring.

Injectable compositions are typically based upon injectable sterilesaline or phosphate-buffered saline or other injectable carriers knownin the art. As before, the active compound in such compositions istypically a minor component, often being from about 0.05 to 10% byweight with the remainder being the injectable carrier and the like.

Transdermal compositions are typically formulated as a topical ointmentor cream containing the active ingredient(s), generally in an amountranging from about 0.01 to about 20% by weight, preferably from about0.1 to about 20% by weight, preferably from about 0.1 to about 10% byweight, and more preferably from about 0.5 to about 15% by weight. Whenformulated as a ointment, the active ingredients will typically becombined with either a paraffinic or a water-miscible ointment base.Alternatively, the active ingredients may be formulated in a cream with,for example an oil-in-water cream base. Such transdermal formulationsare well-known in the art and generally include additional ingredientsto enhance the dermal penetration of stability of the active ingredientsor the formulation. All such known transdermal formulations andingredients are included within the scope of this invention.

The compounds of this invention can also be administered by atransdermal device. Accordingly, transdermal administration can beaccomplished using a patch either of the reservoir or porous membranetype, or of a solid matrix variety.

The above-described components for orally administrable, injectable ortopically administrable compositions are merely representative. Othermaterials as well as processing techniques and the like are set forth inPart 8 of Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences. 17th edition, 1985, MackPublishing Company, Easton, Pa., which is incorporated herein byreference.

The compounds of this invention can also be administered in sustainedrelease forms or from sustained release drug delivery systems. Adescription of representative sustained release materials can be foundin Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences.

The following formulation examples illustrate representativepharmaceutical compositions of this invention. The present invention,however, is not limited to the following pharmaceutical compositions.

Formulation 1 Tablets

A compound of formula I is admixed as a dry powder with a dry gelatinbinder in an approximate 1:2 weight ratio. A minor amount of magnesiumstearate is added as a lubricant. The mixture is formed into 240-270 mgtablets (80-90 mg of active compound per tablet) in a tablet press.

Formulation 2 Capsules

A compound of formula I is admixed as a dry powder with a starch diluentin an approximate 1:1 weight ratio. The mixture is filled into 250 mgcapsules (125 mg of active compound per capsule).

Formulation 3 Liquid

A compound of formula I (125 mg), sucrose (1.75 g) and xanthan gum (4mg) are blended, passed through a No. 10 mesh U.S. sieve, and then mixedwith a previously made solution of microcrystalline cellulose and sodiumcarboxymethyl cellulose (11:89,50 mg) in water. Sodium benzoate (10 mg),flavor, and color are diluted with water and added with stirring.Sufficient water is then added to produce a total volume of 5 mL.

Formulation 4 Tablets

The compound of formula I is admixed as a dry powder with a dry gelatinbinder in an approximate 1:2 weight ratio. A minor amount of magnesiumstearate is added as a lubricant. The mixture is formed into 450-900 mgtablets (150-300 mg of active compound) in a tablet press.

Formulation 5 Injection

The compound of formula I is dissolved or suspended in a bufferedsterile saline injectable aqueous medium to a concentration ofapproximately 5 mg/ml.

Formulation 6 Topical

Stearyl alcohol (250 g) and a white petrolatum (250 g) are melted atabout 75° C. and then a mixture of a compound of formula I (50 g)methylparaben (0.25 g), propylparaben (0.15 g), sodium lauryl sulfate(10 g), and propylene glycol (120 g) dissolved in water (about 370 g) isadded and the resulting mixture is stirred until it congeals.

Methods of Treatment

The present compounds are used as therapeutic agents for the treatmentof conditions in mammals. Accordingly, the compounds and pharmaceuticalcompositions of this invention find use as therapeutics for preventingand/or treating neurodegenerative, autoimmune and inflammatoryconditions in mammals including humans.

In a method of treatment aspect, this invention provides a method oftreating a mammal susceptible to or afflicted with a conditionassociated with arthritis, uveitis, asthma, myocardial infarction,traumatic brain injury, acute spinal cord injury, alopecia (hair loss),inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disorders, which methodcomprises administering an effective amount of one or more of thepharmaceutical compositions just described.

In yet another method of treatment aspect, this invention provides amethod of treating a mammal susceptible to or afflicted with a conditionthat gives rise to pain responses or that relates to imbalances in themaintenance of basal activity of sensory nerves. Compounds have use asanalgesics for the treatment of pain of various geneses or etiology, forexample acute, inflammatory pain (such as pain associated withosteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis); various neuropathic painsyndromes (such as post-herpetic neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, reflexsympathetic dystrophy, diabetic neuropathy, Guillian Barre syndrome,fibromyalgia, phantom limb pain, post-masectomy pain, peripheralneuropathy, HIV neuropathy, and chemotherapy-induced and otheriatrogenic neuropathies); visceral pain, (such as that associated withgastroesophageal reflex disease, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatorybowel disease, pancreatitis, and various gynecological and urologicaldisorders), dental pain and headache (such as migraine, cluster headacheand tension headache).

In additional method of treatment aspects, this invention providesmethods of treating a mammal susceptible to or afflicted withneurodegenerative diseases and disorders such as, for exampleParkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis;diseases and disorders which are mediated by or result inneuroinflammation such as, for example traumatic brain injury, stroke,and encephalitis; centrally-mediated neuropsychiatric diseases anddisorders such as, for example depression mania, bipolar disease,anxiety, schizophrenia, eating disorders, sleep disorders and cognitiondisorders; epilepsy and seizure disorders; prostate, bladder and boweldysfunction such as, for example urinary incontinence, urinaryhesitancy, rectal hypersensitivity, fecal incontinence, benign prostatichypertrophy and inflammatory bowel disease; respiratory and airwaydisease and disorders such as, for example, allergic rhinitis, asthmaand reactive airway disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease;diseases and disorders which are mediated by or result in inflammationsuch as, for example rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, myocardialinfarction, various autoimmune diseases and disorders, uveitis andatherosclerosis; itch/pruritus such as, for example psoriasis; alopecia(hair loss); obesity; lipid disorders; cancer; blood pressure; spinalcord injury; and renal disorders method comprises administering aneffective condition-treating or condition-preventing amount of one ormore of the pharmaceutical compositions just described.

Injection dose levels range from about 0.1 mg/kg/hour to at least 10mg/kg/hour, all for from about 1 to about 120 hours and especially 24 to96 hours. A preloading bolus of from about 0.1 mg/kg to about 10 mg/kgor more may also be administered to achieve adequate steady statelevels. The maximum total dose is not expected to exceed about 2 g/dayfor a 40 to 80 kg human patient.

For the prevention and/or treatment of long-term conditions, such asneurodegenerative and autoimmune conditions, the regimen for treatmentusually stretches over many months or years so oral dosing is preferredfor patient convenience and tolerance. With oral dosing, one to five andespecially two to four and typically three oral doses per day arerepresentative regimens. Using these dosing patterns, each dose providesfrom about 0.01 to about 20 mg/kg of the compound or its derivative,with preferred doses each providing from about 0.1 to about 10 mg/kg andespecially about 1 to about 5 mg/kg.

Transdermal doses are generally selected to provide similar or lowerblood levels than are achieved using injection doses.

When used to prevent the onset of a neurodegenerative, autoimmune orinflammatory condition, the compounds or their derivatives of thisinvention will be administered to a patient at risk for developing thecondition, typically on the advice and under the supervision of aphysician, at the dosage levels described above. Patients at risk fordeveloping a particular condition generally include those that have afamily history of the condition, or those who have been identified bygenetic testing or screening to be particularly susceptible todeveloping the condition.

The compounds of this invention can be administered as the sole activeagent or they can be administered in combination with other agents,including other active derivatives.

General Synthetic Procedures

The compounds of this invention can be prepared from readily availablestarting materials using the following general methods and procedures.It will be appreciated that where typical or preferred processconditions (i.e., reaction temperatures, times, mole ratios ofreactants, solvents, pressures, etc.) are given, other processconditions can also be used unless otherwise stated. Optimum reactionconditions may vary with the particular reactants or solvent used, butsuch conditions can be determined by one skilled in the art by routineoptimization procedures.

Additionally, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art,conventional protecting groups may be necessary to prevent certainfunctional groups from undergoing undesired reactions. The choice of asuitable protecting group for a particular functional group as well assuitable conditions for protection and deprotection are well known inthe art. For example, numerous protecting groups, and their introductionand removal, are described in T. W. Greene and P. G. M. Wuts, ProtectingGroups in Organic Synthesis, Second Edition, Wiley, New York, 1991, andreferences cited therein.

The target compounds are synthesized by known reactions outlined in thefollowing schemes. The products are isolated and purified by knownstandard procedures. Such procedures include (but are not limited to)recrystallization, column chromatography or HPLC. The target compounds,for example, may be prepared by the reaction of an appropriatelysubstituted halopyridine with an appropriately functionalized carboxyboronic acid to obtain the desired biaryl carboxylic acid. Thecarboxylic acid intermediate thus obtained can be conveniently convertedto its corresponding amide by activation followed by reacting with anappropriately substituted amine. The products are isolated and purifiedby known standard procedures. Such procedures include (but are notlimited to) recrystallization, column chromatography or HPLC.

Preparation of Substituted Benzoic Acids Intermediate 14-((E)-3,3-Dimethyl-but-1-enyl)-benzoic Acid

To a cooled (0° C.) and well stirred suspension of 4-carboxybenzaldehyde (2.0 g, 13.32 mmol) in anhydrous THF (90 mL) is added 33.3mmol of neopentyl magnesium chloride in hexane during 20 minutes and themixture is stirred at the same temperature for an additional two hoursbefore being quenched with saturated ammonium chloride solution. Most ofthe THF is evaporated and the aqueous mixture is treated with conc. HCl(50 mL) and the mixture is heated to reflux for 2 hours. The mixture isthen cooled to ambient temperature and extracted with methylene chloride(2×100 mL), the organic layer is dried over sodium sulfate andconcentrated to obtain the desired 4-(3,3-dimethyl-but-1-enyl)-benzoicacid.

Intermediate 2 ((E)-4-Pent-1-enyl)-benzoic Acid

To a stirred solution of 4-formyl-benzoic acid (1.5 g, 10 mmol) in THFat −78° C., was added 2.5 eq. of n-butyllithium in hexan and the mixturewas slowly warmed to ambient temperature. After stirring for anadditional 2 hrs, the reaction was quenched with sat. NH₄Cl solution andextracted with EtOAc (2×100 mL). The combined organic extracts weredried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated to give the crude carbinol which wastreated with 30% H₂SO₄ for 30 min at ambient temperature. The reactionmixture was then quenched with cold water and the precipitate formed wasfiltered, washed with water and vacuum dried to obtain the titlecompound (1.1 g, 57.9%).

Intermediate 3 6-(3,3-Dimethylbut-1-ynyl)nicotinic Acid

6-Chloronicotinic acid methyl ester (500 mg; 2.93 mmol) was suspended in1,4-dioxane (3 ml) in a 5 ml reaction vial. To the vessel was addeddichlorobis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II) (70 mg; 3 mol %), copperiodide (12 mg), N,N-diisopropylethylamine (0.63 ml; 3.5 mmol) and3,3-dimethylbut-1-yne (0.44 ml; 3.5 mmol). The vessel was sealed and themixture was heated at 80° C. for 24 hrs. The solvents were evaporated todryness and 20 ml of tetrahydrofuran and 20 ml of 10N NaOH was added.The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 30 minutes and thesolvent was evaporated. The basic layer was acidified with concentratedHCl and extracted three times with EtOAc. The organic layers were washedwith brine and dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered and evaporated to give thedesired product as a brown powder (590 mg; 99%).

MS: MH+=204

Intermediate 4 4-(3,3-Dimethylbut-1-ynyl)benzoic Acid

The 4-iodobenzoic acid methyl ester (500 mg; 1.9 mmol) was suspended in1,4-dioxane (3 ml) in a 5 ml reaction vial. To the vessel was addeddichlorobis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II) (44 mg; 3 mol %), copperiodide (7.5 mg), N,N-diisopropylethylamine (0.39 ml; 3.5 mmol) and3,3-dimethylbut-1-yne (0.275 ml; 3.5 mmol). The vessel was sealed andthe mixture was heated at 80° C. for 24 hrs. The solvents wereevaporated to dryness and 20 ml of tetrahydrofuran and 20 ml of 10N NaOHwas added. The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 30 minutesand the solvent was evaporated. The basic layer was acidified withconcentrated HCl and extracted three times with EtOAc. The organiclayers were washed with brine and dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered andevaporated to give the desired product as a brown powder (210 mg; 28%).

MS: MH+=203

Intermediate 5 2,2,2-Trifluoroethyldiphenylpbosphine Oxide

A mixture of ethyl diphenylphosphonite (1.98 g; 5.8 mmol) and2,2,2-trifluoroethyl iodide (6.1 g; 29 mmol) was stirred at roomtemperature under nitrogen for 24 hrs. The excess reagents were removedunder vacuum. The residue was purified on silica gel using a 0-100%hexane-ethyl acetate gradient to give the target as a white powder (800mg; 49%).

MS: MH+=286

4-(3,3,3-Trifluoropropenyl)benzoic Acid

4A Molecular sieves (7 g; activated powder) was suspended in 8.8 ml of1.0M TBAF in THF and stirred overnight at room temperature undernitrogen. To the solution was added methyl 4-formylbenzoate (160 mg;0.97 mmol) and 2,2,2-trifluoroethyldiphenylphosphine oxide (415 mg; 1.46mmol) in 10 ml of anhydrous THF. After stirring overnight, the solventswere evaporated to dryness. The residue was dissolved in EtOAc andwashed with water and brine. The organic dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered andevaporated. The residue was dissolved in 10 ml of THF and 10 ml of 1NNaOH and refluxed for 30 minutes. The mixture was acidified withconcentrated HCl and extracted three times with EtOAc. The organiclayers were washed with brine and dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered andevaporated to give the desired product as a brown powder (125 mg; 60%).

MS: MH+=217

In addition to the benzoic acids listed above other benzoic acids, whichwere employed or can be employed to prepare amide compounds of thisinvention, were synthesized following the procedures described above forIntermediate 1-6 and the appropriate reagents, starting materials andpurification methods known to those skilled in the art. (David, pleaserevise as appropriate)

Amidation of Carboxylic Acids EXAMPLE 1 A Representative Synthesis ofBenzamide

4-((E)-3,3-Dimethylbut-1-enyl)-N-3-methoxy-phenyl)-benzamide

To a cooled (0° C.) and well stirred suspension of4-(3,3-dimethyl-but-1-enyl)-benzoic acid (1.5 g, 7.34 mMol) in a mixtureof EtOAc and DMF (1:1, 25 mL) is added oxalyl chloride (0.364 g, 4.04mMol) slowly drop-wise and the mixture is agitated for one hour.m-Anisidine (1.36 g, 11.01 mMol) is then added in EtOAc (5 mL) and themixture is stirred for 6.0 hours before being quenched with saturatedpotassium carbonate solution. The precipitate is filtered, washed withwater and vacuum dried to obtain the title compound.

EXAMPLE 3 A Representative Synthesis of Benzamides Using AutomatedParallel Synthesis Method

The appropriate benzoic acid (2 mmol) was dissolved or suspended in 15ml of chloroform and treated with 20 mmol of thionyl chloride. Thereaction mixture was refluxed for fifteen minutes and the solvents wereremoved under vacuum. The residue was dissolved in 4 ml of anhydrouschloroform and 60 μl (30 mmole) of this solution was added to each wellof the 96 well glass plates. Appropriate amine was then added to thecorresponding well (60 μmole), followed by N,N-diisopropylethylamine(120 μmole). The plate was then heated at 65° C. for 15 minutes. Thesolvents were removed using an HT-12 Genevac centrifugal evacuator and100 μl of DMSO was added to each well and the compounds were transferredto a 96-well polypropylene reaction plate. The plates were then sealedusing an ABgene plate sealer and submitted to LC-MS purification.

General Method for Automated parallel LC-MS Purification of Libraries

The libraries were purified using a Perkin Elmer API100 massspectrometer coupled to Shimadzu LC pumps. The chromatographic methodemployed was 10-100% gradient of acetonitrile to water over 8 minutes ata flow rate of 6 ml per minute. The column used was a 10×50 mm YMC C18and the compounds were collected using a Gilson 204 fraction collector.

Following the procedure described above for Example 1 or 2 and theappropriate reagents, starting materials and purification methods knownto those skilled in the art, the amide compounds of this invention wereprepared.

The following synthetic and biological examples are offered toillustrate this invention and are not to be construed in any way aslimiting the scope of this invention. In the examples below, alltemperatures are in degrees Celsius (unless otherwise indicated). Thecompounds that have been prepared in accordance with the invention, arepresented in tabular form below. The syntheses of these representativecompounds were carried out in accordance with the methods set forthabove.

Exemplary Compounds of the Invention

The following compounds have been prepared according to the methods ofthe invention and are set forth in Table 1, below. For purposes of thisTable, the biological activity of each compound is expressed as noted inthe following legend, which should be consulted in the review of theTable:

TABLE 1 AMIDE COMPOUNDS HPLC HPLC HPLC START END % MW MS RT TIME TIMEInhibition @ ID STRUCTURE (calc) (Obs) (Min) (Min) (Min) 1 uM 1

259.39 260.22 3.99 3.89 4.88 2

309.41 310.41 4.08 3.94 4.48 ++++ 3

337.42 338.29 3.96 3.85 4.39 ++++ 4

285.43 286.25 4.11 3.94 4.44 5

323.44 324.37 4.01 3.86 4.58 ++ 6

247.34 248.19 3.00 2.79 3.36 + 7

333.48 334.38 4.29 4.16 4.58 ++ 8

313.49 314.24 4.36 4.24 4.84 +++ 9

369.51 370.20 4.36 4.24 4.69 + 10

273.42 274.26 4.11 3.98 4.55 11

341.88 342.21 4.19 3.99 4.65 ++++ 12

341.54 342.29 4.81 4.36 5.14 + 13

293.41 294.23 3.93 3.85 4.41 + 14

245.37 246.25 3.69 3.58 4.05 + 15

309.41 310.39 3.99 3.89 4.29 + 16

287.41 288.07 3.51 3.42 3.96 + 17

337.42 338.29 3.85 3.75 4.24 + 18

323.44 324.38 3.92 3.83 4.26 19

361.41 362.35 4.29 4.14 4.66 20

386.52 387.24 3.41 3.32 3.69 + 21

383.49 384.23 3.82 3.75 4.25 22

271.41 272.27 3.92 3.78 4.28 23

243.35 244.26 3.51 3.42 3.86 24

367.49 368.25 3.78 3.61 4.19 + 25

275.39 276.27 3.45 3.35 3.81 26

321.47 322.35 4.19 4.04 4.58 + 27

295.38 296.29 3.93 3.79 4.36 28

231.34 232.25 3.51 3.38 4.12 29

299.44 300.24 3.89 3.71 4.17 + 30

304.40 305.35 3.89 3.81 4.29 ++ 31

309.41 310.41 4.32 4.19 4.69 + 32

321.47 322.35 4.34 4.21 4.82 + 33

313.83 314.13 4.44 4.21 4.87 + 34

259.39 260.26 3.86 3.78 4.21 35

353.47 354.26 3.72 3.62 4.16 + 36

311.40 312.21 3.98 3.78 4.38 37

343.86 344.17 4.22 4.07 4.64 + 38

304.40 305.33 4.08 3.95 4.48 + 39

323.44 324.37 3.75 3.66 4.24 ++++ 40

335.49 336.49 4.61 4.48 5.12 +++ 41

321.47 322.36 4.49 4.38 4.97 ++ 42

335.49 336.50 4.69 4.39 5.05 + 43

361 53 362.46 4.88 4.76 5.21 + 44

377.41 378.30 4.52 4.35 4.81 ++++ 45

307.44 308.40 4.19 3.92 4.64 ++++ 46

273.42 274.27 4.16 4.06 4.64 47

323.40 324.33 4.01 3.86 4.39 ++++ 48

308.43 309.36 3.19 3.01 3.75 ++ 49

294.40 295.28 2.73 2.60 3.19 ++++ 50

311.43 312.24 2.75 2.60 3.16 51

300.45 301.34 2.76 2.66 3.23 52

280.37 281.31 2.98 2.79 3.39 ++++ 53

280.37 281.30 2.88 2.72 3.31 ++++ 54

269.35 270.27 3.22 3.06 3.63 + 55

286.40 287.10 3.83 3.72 4.09 + 56

376.55 377.40 3.12 3.00 3.42 + 57

316.45 317.25 2.72 2.40 3.08 58

294.40 295.28 2.72 2.48 3.31 59

346.48 347.27 3.92 3.74 4.30 60

315.46 316.28 2.45 2.19 2.63 + 61

322.45 323.24 3.06 2.72 3.46 ++++ 62

350.51 351.42 3.18 3.05 3.53 ++++ 63

364.49 365.26 3.31 3.19 3.54 64

294.40 295.30 3.08 2.91 3.48 + 65

300.45 301.34 2.75 2.68 3.06 + 66

318.42 319.08 3.82 3.73 4.24 ++ 67

281.36 282.29 3.29 3.22 3.65 + 68

294.40 295.28 3.00 2.52 3.39 +++ 69

359.27 359.14 4.39 4.21 4.82 + 70

348.37 349.28 4.46 4.19 4.79 + 71

382.82 383.15 4.21 4.02 4.48 + 72

308.43 309.39 3.23 2.95 3.55 + 73

314.82 315.02 4.07 3.94 4.34 74

314.82 315.02 3.99 3.86 4.41 +++ 75

310.40 311.32 3.64 3.56 4.08 ++ 76

314.82 315.06 4.06 3.95 4.42 ++++ 77

309.41 310.43 3.11 2.83 3.36 + 78

330.43 331.27 3.11 2.93 3.74 ++++ 79

297.40 298.32 2.76 2.72 2.92 80

294.40 295.27 2.69 2.43 3.03 + 81

336.48 337.47 2.99 2.72 3.36 + 82

335.49 336.49 4.41 4.29 4.74 83

294.40 295.27 3.00 2.89 3.53 84

231.34 232.17 3.51 3.36 3.96 85

245.37 246.20 3.82 3.62 4.22 86

271.41 272.26 3.92 3.78 4.31 87

309.41 310.39 3.83 3.63 4.28 + 88

269.35 270.27 3.58 3.46 3.99 ++ 89

233.31 234.16 2.83 2.75 3.22 90

322.45 323.22 2.80 2.63 2.90 91

319.45 320.18 4.12 3.96 4.75 92

299.46 300.24 4.19 4.04 4.97 93

280.37 281.29 2.60 2.46 3.05 + 94

297.40 298.30 2.63 2.50 2.75 95

355.48 356.20 4.21 4.01 4.54 ++ 96

286.42 287.19 2.65 2.49 3.02 97

259.39 260.17 3.92 3.75 4.52 98

327.86 328.28 4.04 3.91 4.59 + 99

327.51 328.38 4.64 4.35 4.95 100

279.39 280.19 3.75 3.53 4.09 101

245.37 246.19 3.71 3.59 4.31 102

231.34 232.19 3.49 3.41 3.89 103

265.36 266.09 3.87 3.72 4.34 104

283.35 284.27 3.95 3.76 4.05 105

266.35 267.07 2.82 2.70 3.19 ++ 106

266.35 267.05 2.76 2.63 2.86 ++ 107

255.32 256.33 3.07 2.95 3.44 108

272.37 273.11 3.65 3.43 4.02 109

273.38 274.17 3.32 3.21 3.81 ++ 110

362.52 363.42 2.95 2.84 3.36 111

323.40 324.31 3.69 3.56 4.08 +++ 112

302.42 303.14 2.61 2.51 2.72 ++ 113

310.36 311.31 4.34 4.24 4.57 114

309.41 310.40 3.78 3.62 4.11 115

347.38 348.17 4.04 3.92 4.39 116

372.49 373.17 3.22 3.13 3.58 + 117

369.46 370.14 3.56 3.48 3.95 + 118

257.38 258.25 3.74 3.62 4.18 119

229.32 230.25 3.31 3.22 3.69 120

280.37 281.29 2.62 2.51 2.76 + 121

353.47 354.19 3.61 3.49 4.02 +++ 122

307.44 308.40 4.01 3.89 4.31 123

332.45 333.27 3.75 3.61 4.18 + 124

281.36 282.30 3.73 3.65 4.08 125

301.44 302.32 2.33 2.28 2.65 ++++ 126

217.31 218.25 3.31 3.18 3.96 ++ 127

285.41 286.12 3.71 3.59 4.19 ++ 128

290.37 291.12 3.73 3.62 4.58 129

308.43 309.34 2.93 2.75 3.03 130

336.48 337.42 3.03 2.92 3.49 +++ 131

299.80 300.15 4.18 3.98 4.55 132

295.38 296.26 4.15 3.99 4.45 + 133

307.44 308.39 4.17 3.98 4.77 134

295.38 296.26 3.91 3.71 4.46 135

350.46 351.36 3.16 3.03 3.56 136

299.80 300.15 4.25 4.05 4.66 + 137

280.37 281.30 2.92 2.83 3.26 138

323.48 324.41 4.45 4.35 4.84 139

245.37 246.19 3.69 3.49 4.32 + 140

286.42 287.18 2.62 2.45 2.91 141

334.25 334.12 4.62 4.45 4.85 142

339.44 340.17 3.55 3.44 3.91 + 143

297.38 298.24 3.82 3.68 4.25 + 144

348.28 348.13 4.19 4.04 4.66 145

329.83 330.12 4.04 3.92 4.45 + 146

333.36 334.22 4.36 4.19 4.78 147

334.25 334.11 4.54 4.42 4.74 148

367.80 368.10 4.47 4.37 4.89 + 149

344.25 345.96 4.26 4.09 4.62 150

290.37 291.12 3.91 3.72 4.21 ++ 151

309.41 310.39 3.55 3.45 4.12 +++ 152

321.47 322.32 4.44 4.26 4.99 153

307.44 308.38 4.32 4.16 4.79 ++++ 154

321.47 322.32 4.54 4.25 5.05 155

363.38 364.29 4.32 4.06 4.55 156

293.41 294.16 4.02 3.88 4.76 + 157

323.40 324.31 3.81 3.68 4.68 158

304.40 305.29 3.66 3.56 4.02 ++ 159

267.33 268.16 3.13 3.05 3.22 160

280.37 281.29 2.88 2.79 2.95 161

334.34 335.32 4.29 4.12 4.64 162

368.79 369.07 4.01 3.78 4.35 163

294.40 295.28 3.08 2.92 3.35 164

259.39 260.17 3.97 3.84 4.88 + 165

300.79 301.19 3.85 3.71 4.42 166

300.79 301.19 3.79 3.64 4.32 + 167

296.37 297.31 3.46 3.38 3.76 168

300.79 301.19 3.86 3.75 4.15 + 169

309.37 310.34 3.80 3.68 4.17 +++ 170

295.39 296.32 2.98 2.89 3.13 171

316.41 317.19 2.96 2.79 3.43 ++ 172

382.51 383.27 4.38 4.15 5.04 ++ 173

283.38 284.27 2.59 2.42 2.92 174

280.37 281.29 2.62 2.43 2.98 175

353.47 354.18 4.44 4.21 4.74 + 176

315.42 316.19 4.25 4.06 4.56 177

321.47 322.30 4.24 4.11 4.74 178

294.40 295.26 2.76 2.63 3.25 179

231.34 232.17 3.53 3.41 3.92 + 180

245.37 246.20 3.86 3.73 4.64 181

271.41 272.27 3.95 3.75 4.41 + 182

309.41 310.38 3.86 3.65 4.19 183

269.35 270.24 3.63 3.55 3.98 + 184

233.31 234.15 2.88 2.79 3.29 185

322.45 323.21 2.83 2.59 3.11 + 186

329.45 330.19 4.12 3.92 4.51 187

319.45 320.16 4.18 4.08 4.48 188

299.46 300.23 4.22 3.95 4.78 189

280.37 281.28 2.66 2.55 3.11 190

297.40 298.27 2.66 2.55 3.12 + 191

355.48 356.19 4.25 4.15 4.81 + 192

286.42 287.18 2.68 2.58 3.02 + 193

259.39 260.17 3.98 3.76 4.68 ++ 194

327.86 328.28 3.84 3.51 4.21 + 195

327.51 328.37 4.71 4.42 5.14 196

279.39 280.16 3.81 3.61 4.46 + 197

245.37 246.20 3.75 3.63 4.26 + 198

231.34 232.18 3.55 3.43 4.06 ++ 199

265.36 266.09 3.96 3.83 4.24 200

295.38 296.20 3.61 3.51 3.89 201

283.35 284.27 4.02 3.79 4.16 202

266.35 267.03 2.88 2.58 3.32 + 203

266.35 267.04 2.48 2.30 2.99 + 204

255.32 256.34 3.12 2.93 3.51 + 205

272.37 273.10 3.71 3.58 4.34 + 206

273.38 274.16 3.36 3.26 3.91 + 207

362.52 363.38 2.95 2.85 3.25 ++ 208

323.40 324.31 3.78 3.42 4.15 + 209

302.42 303.13 2.61 2.49 3.15 + 210

309.41 310.39 3.81 3.69 4.16 211

347.38 348.17 3.91 3.72 4.18 + 212

372.49 373.11 3.28 3.16 3.72 213

369.46 370.15 3.61 3.53 4.05 + 214

257.38 258.24 3.78 3.64 4.35 + 215

229.32 230.25 3.36 3.25 4.01 216

280.37 281.28 2.68 2.46 2.78 + 217

353.47 354.20 3.69 3.24 4.04 + 218

261.37 262.08 3.29 3.22 3.65 + 219

307.44 308.37 4.09 3.76 4.55 + 220

332.45 333.26 3.81 3.68 4.18 221

281.36 282.28 3.81 3.59 4.21 222

301.44 302.28 2.38 2.29 2.52 223

217.31 218.25 3.33 3.21 3.76 +++ 224

285.41 286.10 3.76 3.59 4.15 ++ 225

290.37 291.07 3.81 3.72 4.14 + 226

308.43 309.33 2.68 2.55 3.21 +++ 227

336.48 337.41 2.79 2.64 3.19 + 228

299.80 300.15 4.25 4.12 4.66 +++ 229

295.38 296.23 4.22 4.06 4.72 230

307.44 308.37 4.22 3.66 4.62 + 231

295.38 296.23 3.68 3.52 3.99 232

350.46 351.37 2.90 2.76 3.16 233

299.80 300.12 4.34 4.08 4.65 + 234

280.37 281.28 2.96 2.72 3.49 + 235

323.48 324.41 4.51 4.34 5.04 236

245.37 246.18 3.72 3.39 4.15 + 237

286.42 287.18 2.66 2.46 2.76 + 238

339.44 340.16 3.59 3.49 4.04 + 239

297.38 298.21 3.86 3.68 4.32 ++ 240

348.28 348.13 4.24 3.98 4.81 241

329.83 330.11 4.15 3.81 4.44 242

367.80 368.08 4.52 4.41 4.69 ++ 243

344.25 345.95 4.44 4.01 4.68 244

290.37 291.12 3.98 3.85 4.44 ++ 245

309.41 310.39 3.61 3.51 3.86 + 246

321.47 322.30 4.48 4.24 4.89 + 247

307.44 308.38 4.39 4.26 4.68 + 248

321.47 322.27 4.58 4.51 4.84 +++ 249

363.38 364.29 4.41 4.12 4.82 + 250

293.41 294.14 4.08 3.88 4.78 251

323.40 324.30 3.60 3.48 3.90 252

304.40 305.27 3.72 3.60 4.18 + 253

267.33 268.14 2.86 2.73 3.13 254

280.37 281.28 2.89 2.69 2.99 255

368.79 369.06 4.08 3.91 4.68 256

294.40 295.26 3.12 2.92 3.49 + 257

259.39 260.17 4.02 3.83 4.84 258

300.79 301.16 3.93 3.82 4.32 259

300.79 301.17 3.86 3.48 4.24 + 260

296.37 297.29 3.21 3.03 3.61 + 261

300.79 301.18 3.92 3.78 4.25 + 262

309.37 310.34 3.66 3.46 4.01 263

295.39 296.23 2.70 2.60 2.99 264

316.41 317.17 2.80 2.76 3.18 265

382.51 383.24 3.82 3.48 3.95 266

283.38 284.26 2.60 2.52 3.11 267

280.37 281.28 2.65 2.46 3.05 + 268

353.47 354.18 4.45 4.32 4.95 269

315.42 316.17 4.31 4.05 4.64 270

321.47 322.27 4.29 4.09 4.69 271

322.45 323.23 3.05 2.82 3.43 272

259.39 260.17 3.79 3.63 4.14 273

273.42 274.18 4.12 4.02 4.62 274

299.46 300.22 4.22 4.02 4.62 275

337.47 338.29 3.91 3.79 4.31 + 276

297.40 298.26 3.65 3.42 4.04 277

261.37 262.10 3.13 3.05 3.38 278

350.51 351.38 2.73 2.62 3.08 279

347.50 348.24 4.24 4.06 4.69 280

327.51 328.39 4.35 4.14 5:01 281

308.43 309.33 2.56 2.45 2.85 + 282

325.46 326.32 2.89 2.79 3.16 283

383.54 384.22 4.65 4.05 4.75 + 284

314.47 315.23 2.59 2.43 2.92 285

287.45 288.06 3.99 3.81 4.64 286

355.91 356.17 4.09 3.83 4.44 + 287

355.57 356.29 4.71 4.50 5.17 + 288

307.44 308.35 3.82 3.71 4.42 289

273.42 274.19 3.81 3.68 4.24 290

259.39 260.18 3.55 3.46 4.41 291

293.41 294.13 3.96 3.82 4.31 292

323.44 324.37 3.91 3.72 4.29 293

311.40 312.15 4.01 3.85 4.32 294

294.40 295.25 2.79 2.64 3.15 295

294.40 295.25 2.71 2.56 3.08 296

283.38 284.23 3.08 2.93 3.38 297

300.43 301.23 3.72 3.55 3.94 298

301.43 302.28 3.38 3.29 3.76 299

390.57 391.38 2.89 2.76 3.22 300

351.45 352.29 3.75 3.65 4.19 301

330.47 331.31 2.53 2.40 2.80 302

337.47 338.29 3.81 3.45 4.28 303

375.44 376.23 4.15 3.89 4.61 304

400.54 401.23 3.25 3.15 3.52 + 305

397.52 398.26 3.65 3.51 3.96 + 306

285.43 286.15 3.83 3.63 4.26 307

257.38 258.26 3.36 3.22 4.06 308

308.43 309.33 2.58 2.38 2.96 + 309

381.52 382.26 3.63 3.43 4.06 310

289.42 290.21 3.32 3.24 3.59 311

335.49 336.47 4.14 3.89 4.52 312

360.50 361.34 3.79 3.66 4.35 313

309.41 310.37 3.81 3.49 4.11 + 314

329.49 330.28 2.19 2.13 2.48 315

245.37 246.22 3.36 3.26 3.72 + 316

313.47 314.10 3.78 3.68 4.12 ++ 317

318.42 319.05 3.78 3.71 4.18 318

336.48 337.40 2.92 2.75 3.29 319

364.54 365.28 3.02 2.63 3.32 320

323.44 324.38 4.29 4.06 4.69 321

335.49 336.48 4.25 4.02 4.75 322

378.52 379.35 3.16 3.02 3.45 323

327.86 328.28 4.35 4.18 4.67 324

308.43 309.33 2.89 2.72 3.24 + 325

351.54 352.39 4.61 4.32 5.07 326

273.42 274.17 3.81 3.68 4.15 327

314.47 315.21 2.54 2.39 2.78 328

367.49 368.21 3.59 3.51 3.91 329

325.43 326.28 3.89 3.72 4.28 330

357.88 358.17 4.11 3.96 4.55 + 331

361.41 362.30 4.41 4.21 4.66 +++ 332

318.42 319.02 4.01 3.86 4.29 +++ 333

337.47 338.29 3.63 3.45 3.99 334

349.52 350.44 4.54 4.38 4.95 +++ 335

335.49 336.48 4.48 4.26 4.91 336

349.52 350.44 4.69 4.54 5.07 ++ 337

391.44 392.21 4.45 4.29 4.78 + 338

321.47 322.28 4.11 3.92 4.59 + 339

351.45 352.28 3.91 3.69 4.44 340

332.45 333.28 3.72 3.61 4.02 341

295.39 296.26 3.15 3.05 3.48 + 342

308.43 309.31 2.85 2.66 3.06 343

373.30 375.06 4.32 3.96 4.74 344

362.40 363.35 4.39 4.18 4.64 + 345

396.84 397.12 4.10 3.94 4.45 + 346

322.45 323.22 3.05 2.86 3.32 347

287.45 288.05 4.12 3.88 4.55 348

328.85 329.25 3.95 3.88 4.25 349

328.85 329.24 3.88 3.69 4.58 350

324.43 325.32 3.51 3.23 3.79 351

328.85 329.24 3.92 3.79 4.25 + 352

337.42 338.29 3.88 3.62 4.26 353

323.44 324.39 2.95 2.86 3.11 354

344.46 345.09 2.92 2.62 3.28 355

410.56 411.28 4.48 4.21 4.92 356

311.43 312.18 2.52 2.39 2.88 + 357

308.43 309.32 2.55 2.42 2.85 + 358

343.47 344.18 4.36 4.06 4.66 ++++ 359

349.52 350.45 4.36 4.14 4.75 360

433.55 437.92 3.49 3.43 3.61 361

321.38 322.26 3.78 3.45 4.22 ++++ 362

317.39 318.16 3.35 3.19 3.61 363

420.56 421.28 3.14 3.09 3.51 +++ 364

307.40 308.37 3.92 3.78 4.16 ++++ 365

311.81 309.08 3.76 3.73 3.88 + 366

341.84 342.18 3.99 3.93 4.38 ++ 367

345.37 346.23 4.21 3.92 4.52 ++ 368

379.81 380.22 4.41 4.26 4.52 ++++ 369

333.48 334.42 4.36 4.11 4.67 370

319.45 320.28 4.26 4.02 4.48 371

333.48 334.41 4.45 4.39 4.74 372

375.39 376.29 4.25 4.09 4.41 ++++ 373

335.41 336.44 3.76 3.55 3.99 ++++ 374

345.37 346.22 4.20 4.15 4.41 ++++ 375

361.37 362.31 4.21 4.05 4.49 376

335.45 336.47 4.14 3.95 4.55 +++ 377

355.46 356.25 3.56 3.43 3.82 ++++ 378

328.42 329.30 2.77 2.61 3.05 ++++ 379

328.42 329.29 3.12 2.94 3.51 ++++ 380

348.49 349.37 3.00 2.93 3.43 ++ 381

362.48 363.49 3.12 2.98 3.45 382

357.25 357.09 4.15 4.01 4.32 ++ 383

346.36 347.14 4.21 4.09 4.34 +++ 384

312.80 313.12 3.76 3.61 3.99 ++++ 385

308.38 309.38 3.47 3.34 3.71 ++++ 386

312.80 313.15 3.82 3.62 4.06 387

330.43 331.29 3.83 3.61 4.25 ++++ 388

434.46 435.36 2.96 2.92 3.11 389

321.30 322.27 3.46 3.38 3.66 ++++ 390

325.72 326.25 3.73 3.63 3.85 ++ 391

355.75 356.17 3.59 3.42 3.95 + 392

359.27 360.06 5.14 5.00 5.22 + 393

347.38 348.29 4.24 4.19 4.44 394

333.36 334.28 3.92 3.82 4.22 ++ 395

347.38 348.29 4.14 4.05 4.31 + 396

389.30 390.30 3.96 3.81 4.02 397

349.31 350.29 3.35 3.26 3.56 +++ 398

359.27 360.14 3.84 3.67 3.97 ++++ 399

375.27 376.16 3.88 3.79 4.28 ++++ 400

349.36 350.33 3.76 3.62 3.96 401

369.37 371.10 1.56 1.49 1.70 402

342.32 343.09 2.48 2.45 2.55 403

342.32 343.10 2.78 2.59 2.85 404

362.40 363.43 2.72 2.50 3.11 405

376.38 377.34 2.86 2.82 3.15 406

322.29 323.16 3.04 2.85 3.09 ++ 407

326.71 327.08 3.46 3.39 3.58 408

344.34 345.09 3.43 3.18 3.72 409

335.29 336.39 3.34 3.25 3.44 410

331.30 332.28 3.06 3.00 3.25 411

356.45 357.11 3.05 2.98 3.62 ++++ 412

355.46 356.25 4.32 3.74 4.75 ++++ 413

421.54 422.12 2.68 2.62 3.05 + 414

308.38 309.35 3.32 3.26 3.68 ++++ 415

312.80 313.11 3.59 3.43 3.91 416

342.83 343.15 3.48 3.39 3.72 ++ 417

346.36 347.17 3.76 3.65 4.04 ++++ 418

380.80 381.24 3.96 3.88 4.31 ++++ 419

334.47 335.39 3.89 3.82 4.21 ++++ 420

320.44 321.28 3.78 3.32 4.18 +++ 421

334.47 335.41 4.01 3.93 4.31 ++ 422

376.38 377.32 3.82 3.74 4.18 ++++ 423

336.39 337.39 3.21 3.00 3.43 ++++ 424

346.36 347.16 3.75 3.51 4.02 +++ 425

362.35 363.35 3.76 3.66 4.02 + 426

336.44 337.43 3.64 3.46 3.91 427

356.45 357.09 3.03 2.98 3.26 ++ 428

329.41 330.27 2.38 2.23 2.62 ++++ 429

329.41 330.26 2.70 2.63 2.99 ++++ 430

349.48 350.44 2.58 2.42 2.98 + 431

363.46 364.39 2.66 2.59 2.95 432

358.24 358.12 3.55 3.48 3.71 + 433

347.34 348.22 3.66 3.59 3.91 ++ 434

313.79 314.12 3.22 3.12 3.49 + 435

309.37 310.39 2.92 2.79 3.15 + 436

313.79 314.13 3.26 3.16 3.39 437

331.42 332.28 3.29 3.03 3.51 ++++ 438

322.37 323.19 3.22 3.11 3.45 ++++ 439

318.38 319.08 2.89 2.85 3.16 440

434.54 435.15 3.03 2.93 3.16 “+” compound exhibited 0-25% inhibition ofcalcium ion influx induced by capsaicin stimulation. “++” compoundexhibited 25-50% inhibition of calcium ion influx induced by capsaicinstimulation. “+++” compound exhibited 50-75% inhibition of calcium ioninflux induced by capsaicin stimulation. “++++” compound exhibited 75%or greater inhibition of calcium ion influx induced by capsaicinstimulation. Compounds with a percent inhibition represented by “++++”are of particular interest.

In addition to the amide compounds listed in Table 1 above, thefollowing compounds recited below, which comprise vinyl- andethynyl-substituted amides of this invention, wherein R¹ and R²′ are asdescribed before, can be prepared using the procedure described abovefor Example 1 or 2 and the corresponding benzoic acids, appropriatereagents, and purification methods known to those skilled in the art.

EXAMPLE 4 Calcium Imaging Assay

VR¹ protein is a heat-gated cation channel that exchanges approximatelyten calcium ions for every sodium ion resulting in neuronal membranedepolarization and elevated intracellular calcium levels. Therefore thefunctional activity of compounds at the VR¹ receptor may be determinedby measuring changes in intracellular calcium levels in neurons such asthe dorsal root ganglion.

DRG neurons were grown on PDL coated 96-well black-walled plates, in thepresence of DMEM medium containing 5% Penstrep, 5% Glutamax, 200 μg/mlhygromycin, 5 μg/ml blasticide and 10% heat inactivated FBS. Prior toassay, cells were loaded with 5 μg/ml Fura2 in normal saline solution at37° C. for 40 minutes. Cells were then washed with normal saline toremove dye before commencement of the experiment.

The plated neurons were transferred into a chamber on the stage of aNikon eclipse TE300 microscope after which neurons were allowed toattain a stable fluorescence for about 10 minutes before beginning theexperiment. The assay consists of two stages, a pretreatment phasefollowed by a treatment phase. First, a solution of the test compoundwas added from a multivalve perfusion system to the cells for 1 minute(pretreatment). Immediately following, capsaicin (250 nM) was added inthe presence of the test compound (treatment) for a specific periodbetween 20 and 60 seconds.

Fura2 was excited at 340 and 380 nM to indicate relative calcium ionconcentration. Changes in wavelength measurements were made throughoutthe course of the experiment. The fluorescence ratio was calculated bydividing fluorescence measured at 340 nM by that at 380 nM. Data wascollected using Intelligent Imaging's Slidebook software. All compoundsthat inhibited capsaicin induced calcium influx greater than 75% wereconsidered positives.

Table 2 provides the data obtained. FIG. 1 demonstrates results obtainedwhen compound 155 is administered with capsaicin. Fluorescencereflecting calcium ion influx is reduced. FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 demonstratethe results of administering compounds 3 and 2 with capsaicinrespectively.

TABLE 2 % inhibition of Treatment time capsaicin induced Compound IDConcentration (sec) calcium influx 155 300 nM 20 <75 3 1 μM 60 100 2 1μM 25 100

EXAMPLE 5 High Throughput Analysis of VR1 Antagonists for Determinationof In Vitro Efficacy Using a Calcium Imaging Assay

A dual wavelength ratiometric dye, Fura2, was used as an indicator ofrelative levels of calcium ions in a 96 well format using a bench topscanning fluorometer with integrated fluidics and temperature control(Flex Station, Molecular Devices).

293 neurons were grown on PDL coated 96-well black-walled plates, in thepresence of a DMEM medium containing 5% Penstrep, 5% Glutamax, 200 μg/mlHygromycin, 5 μg/ml Blasticide and 10% heat inactivated FBS. Prior toassay, the cells were loaded with 5 μg/ml Fura2 in normal salinesolution at 37° C. for 40 minutes. Cells were then washed with normalsaline to remove the dye.

The assay consists of two stages: a pre-treatment phase followed by atreatment phase. 50 μl of a compound solution was added to the cells(Pre-treatment). Immediately following, 50 μl of the test compound in asaline solution at pH 5.1 was added. Fura2 was excited at 340 and 380 nMto indicate relative calcium concentration. Changes in wavelengthmeasurements were made throughout the course of the experiment in 4second intervals over a period of 3 minutes. Responses were measured aspeak fluorescence ratio after test compound addition minus baselinefluorescence ratio prior to pre-treatment with test compound and werecalculated using SoftMaxPro software. Data were expressed as percentageinhibition calculated using Excel as follows:

Percentage inhibition=(Compound Response−Control Response)×100

(Agonist Response−Control Response)

All compounds with percentage inhibition values greater than 75% wereconsidered positives. The relative strength of each compound ininhibiting calcium ion influx is set forth in Table 2.

EXAMPLE 6 Whole-Cell Patch Clamp Electrophysiology

Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were recovered from either neonatalor adult rats and plated onto poly-D-lysine coated glass coverslips. Theplated neurons were transferred into a chamber to allow drug solutionsto be added to the cells using a computer-controlled solenoid-valvebased perfusion system. The cells were imaged using standard DIC optics.Cells were patched using finely-pulled glass electrodes. Voltage-clampelectrophysiology experiments were carried out using an Axon InstrumentsMulticlamp amplified controlled by pCLAMP8 software.

The cells were placed into a whole-cell voltage clamp and held at avoltage of −80 mV while monitoring the membrane current in gap-freerecording mode. 500 nM capsaicin was added for 30 seconds as a control.Test compounds at various concentrations were added to the cells for 1minute prior to a 30 second capsaicin application. Differences betweencontrol experiments and drug positive capsaicin experiments were used todetermine the efficacy of each test compound. All compounds thatinhibited capsaicin induced current greater than 50% were consideredpositives. The data obtained for compound 155 is set forth in Table 3.

TABLE 3 % inhibition of Treatment time capsaicin induced Compound IDConcentration (seconds) current 155 100 nM 20 50

FIG. 2 demonstrates the activity of compound 155 in inhibiting thecapsaicin-induced calcium current.

From the foregoing description, various modifications and changes in thecompositions and methods of this invention will occur to those skilledin the art. All such modifications coming within the scope of theappended claims are intended to be included therein.

All publications, including but not limited to patents and patentapplications, cited in this specification are herein incorporated byreference as if each individual publication were specifically andindividually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein as thoughfully set forth.

1. A compound capable of modifying ion channels, in vivo, having aformula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof,wherein: wherein A is N, CR⁴, a carbon atom bound to L, or is not anatom; one of W, Z, B, Y and X is a carbon atom bound to L if A is not anatom, another of W, Z, B, Y and X is a carbon atom bound to G, and eachof the remaining W, Z, B, Y and X is independently N or CR⁴; L issubstituted or unsubstituted —(C—C)—, —(CR⁵═CR⁶)— or —(C≡C)—; G is C═O,C═S or SO₂; R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl,heteroalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, aralkyl, or heteroaralkyl; R² is hydrogenor substituted or unsubstituted alkyl; R³ is substituted orunsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, aralkyl,or heteroaralkyl; each R⁴ is independently hydrogen, alkyl, substitutedor unsubstituted alkyl, acyl, acylamino, alkylamino, alkylthio, alkoxy,alkoxycarbonyl, alkylarylamino, arylalkyloxy, amino, aryl, arylalkyl,sulfoxide, sulfone, sulfanyl, aminosulfonyl, arylsulfonyl, sulfuricacid, sulfuric acid ester, dihydroxyphosphoryl, aminohydroxyphosphoryl,azido, carboxy, carbamoyl, carboxyl, cyano, cycloheteroalkyl,dialkylamino, halo, heteroaryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroalkyl, hydroxyl,nitro or thio; and each of R⁵ and R⁶ is independently H, halo, orsubstituted or unsubstituted aliphatic, alkyl, heteroalkyl, aryl,heteroaryl, aralkyl, or heteroaralkyl. 2.-40. (canceled)
 41. A compoundaccording to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1 and wherein thecompound ID No. is 5, 13, 17, 35, 81, 87, 111, 117, 142, 143, 185, 196,208, 211, 213, 238, 239, 275, or 305, or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, solvate or prodrug thereof; and stereoisomers thereof.
 42. Acompound according to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1 andwherein the compound ID No. is II, 20, 24, 98, 116, 121, 194, 217, 286,or 304, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrugthereof; and stereoisomers thereof.
 43. A compound according to claim 1wherein the compound is of Table 1 and wherein the compound ID No. is 2,3, 15, 30, 31, 32, 33, 37, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 47, 61, 62, 66,78, 130, 132, 136, 145, 148, 150, 151, 153, 156, 158, 169, 171, 172,225, 226, 227, 228, 230, 233, 242, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 252,313, 330, 331, 332, 334, 336, 337, 338, or 358, or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof; and stereoisomers thereof.44. A compound according to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1and wherein the compound ID No. is 48, 52, 53, 64, 67, 68, 70, 71, 72,74, 75, 76, 77, 105, 106, 166, 168, 202, 203, 234, 256, 259, 260, 261,324, 341, 344, 345, or 351, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt,solvate or prodrug thereof; and stereoisomers thereof.
 45. A compoundaccording to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1 and wherein thecompound ID No. is 54, 55, 204, or 205, or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, solvate or prodrug thereof; and stereoisomers thereof.
 46. Acompound according to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1 andwherein the compound ID No. is 8, 12, 56, 65, 181, 207, 214, 237, or287, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof;and stereoisomers thereof.
 47. A compound according to claim 1 whereinthe compound is of Table 1 and wherein the compound ID No. is 6, 9, 14,16, 26, 29, 49, 60, 80, 88, 93, 95, 109, 112, 120, 123, 125, 126, 127,139, 164, 179, 183, 190, 191, 192, 193, 197, 198, 206, 209, 216, 218,219, 223, 224, 236, 267, 281, 283, 308, 315, 316, 356, or 357, or apharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof; andstereoisomers thereof.
 48. A compound according to claim 1 wherein thecompound is of Table 1 and wherein the compound ID No. is 360, 361, 362,363, 364, 365, 366, 367, 368, 369, 370, 371, 372, 373, 374, 375, 376,377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, or 412, or apharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof.
 49. A compoundaccording to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1 and wherein thecompound ID No. is 411, 413-439, or 440, or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof; and stereoisomers thereof.50. A compound according to claim 1 wherein the compound is of Table 1and wherein the compound ID No. is 388, 389, 390, 391, 392, 470, 393,394, 395, 396, 397, 398, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, or 405, or apharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or prodrug thereof; andstereoisomers thereof.
 51. A pharmaceutical composition comprising apharmaceutically acceptable carrier and a pharmaceutically effectiveamount of a compound of claim
 1. 52.-54. (canceled)
 55. A method forpreventing, treating, ameliorating or managing a disease or conditionwhich comprises administering to a patient in need of such prevention,treatment, amelioration or management, a prophylactically ortherapeutically effective amount of a compound of claim 1, or thepharmaceutical composition of claim
 51. 56.-59. (canceled)
 60. A methodfor preventing, treating, ameliorating or managing a disease orcondition, which comprises administering to a patient in need of suchprevention, treatment, amelioration or management a prophylactically ortherapeutically acceptable amount of a compound of claim 1, or thepharmaceutical composition of claim 51, wherein the disease or conditionis: pain including acute, inflammatory and neuropathic pain; chronicpain; dental pain; headache including migraine, cluster headache andtension headache; Parkinson's disease; Alzheimer's disease; multiplesclerosis; diseases and disorders mediated by or result inneuroinflammation, traumatic brain injury, stroke, or encephalitis;centrally-mediated neuropsychiatric diseases and disorders includingdepression, mania, bipolar disease, anxiety, schizophrenia, eatingdisorders, sleep disorders and cognition disorders; epilepsy and seizuredisorders; prostate, bladder and bowel dysfunction, urinaryincontinence, urinary hesitancy, rectal hypersensitivity, fecalincontinence, benign prostatic hypertrophy and inflammatory boweldisease; respiratory and airway disease and disorders including allergicrhinitis, asthma and reactive airway disease and chronic obstructivepulmonary disease; diseases and disorders mediated by or result ininflammation including arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis andosteoarthritis; myocardial infarction; autoimmune diseases anddisorders; uveitis and atherosclerosis; itch/pruritus, psoriasis;alopecia (hair loss); obesity; lipid disorders; cancer; high bloodpressure; spinal cord injury; or renal disorders. 61.-66. (canceled) 67.A method for preparing a compound of claim 1 which comprises contactinga compound of the formula R³-L-Cy-COCl or R³-L-Cy-SO₂Cl with a compoundof the formula R¹R²NH under conditions sufficient to form the compoundof claim 1; and wherein Cy is aryl or heteroaryl.
 68. A method oftreating a mammal suffering from at least one symptom selected from thegroup consisting of symptoms of exposure to capsaicin, symptoms of burnsor irritation due to exposure to heat, symptoms of burns or irritationdue to exposure to light, symptoms of burns, bronchoconstriction orirritation due to exposure to tear gas, and symptoms of burns orexposure irritation due to exposure to acid which amount of a compoundof claim 1, or the pharmaceutical composition of claim
 51. 69.-72.(canceled)